If you’re an author looking to self-publish, you might wonder, “How do I get an ISBN number for my book?” An ISBN (International Standard Book Number) is essential for identifying your book globally. It helps booksellers, libraries, and distributors manage inventory and sales. Whether you’re publishing a print or digital book, getting your own ISBN is important. 

Let’s walk you through the simple process of getting your ISBN number and why buying ISBNs is a crucial part of the self-publishing journey.

What is an ISBN, and Why Do You Need It?

An ISBN is a unique code that identifies books and other publications worldwide. It consists of 13 digits and serves as a unique identifier for your book. When you decide to self-publish, buying an ISBN is your first step toward making your book available to a global audience. With an ISBN, retailers, libraries, and distributors can track and order your book more efficiently.

Not all self-published authors realize that ISBNs are not automatically provided. So, how can you get one?

Steps to Get Your ISBN Number

1. Decide Whether to Buy ISBN Numbers or Use a Free Option

In most cases, authors must buy ISBN numbers themselves. Some self-publishing platforms (Amazon KDP or Draft2Digital) offer a free ISBN, but there’s a catch. If you choose the free ISBN provided by these platforms, they will be listed as the publisher of your book, not you. If you want to maintain full control over your book’s rights and publishing details, buying your own ISBN is best.

Buying ISBNs offers greater flexibility, especially if you plan on distributing your book to multiple retailers or formats. When you buy your ISBN, you are listed as the publisher, which can be essential for professional recognition and control.

2. Select the Right ISBN Provider

Once you decide to buy ISBNs, the next step is choosing the right provider. In the U.S., you can buy ISBN numbers directly from Bowker, the official ISBN agency for the country. Their website makes it easy to buy and register your ISBN. You may also find third-party providers who sell ISBNs, but Bowker is the official and trusted source for purchasing these numbers.

3. Choose the Type of ISBN You Need

Buying ISBNs gives you different options, depending on how you plan to publish your book. Here are a few types to consider:

Standard ISBN: Used for physical books like hardcovers and paperbacks.

Ebook ISBN: If you publish a digital book, you’ll need a specific ISBN for e-books.

Audiobook ISBN: You will need a separate ISBN to track sales and distribution.

If you plan to release multiple formats of your book, such as print and eBook versions, you must buy separate ISBNs for each format.

4. Register Your ISBN Number

After purchasing your ISBN, the next step is to register it with the appropriate details. This includes your book’s title, author, publisher, and format. If you’re self-publishing, you’ll use your name or your publishing company’s name as the publisher. Registering your ISBN helps catalog your book correctly with distributors, retailers, and libraries.

5. Monitor Your ISBN Information

Once your ISBN is registered, you should monitor the details to ensure they’re accurate. Changes in the book (like a title change or a new edition) may require you to update the ISBN information.

7. Distribute Your Book Using the ISBN

Now that you’ve secured your ISBN and registered your book, it’s time to distribute it. With your ISBN, your book is ready to be sold and tracked by retailers and libraries. Whether you’re uploading your book to platforms like Amazon Barnes & Noble, or distributing it in physical bookstores, your ISBN ensures that your book is recognized and available for sale.

Why Buying ISBN Numbers is Worth It

While it might seem tempting to use a free ISBN, buying ISBNs allows you full ownership and control over your book. By doing so, you’ll ensure that you’re recognized as the official publisher of your work. It also enables easier access to global distribution channels, allowing your book to be seen by a wider audience.

By investing in your ISBN, you’re also setting yourself up for future success in the publishing industry. If you plan on releasing multiple books or want to self-publish professionally, owning your ISBN gives you greater flexibility and freedom in managing your publishing journey.

Final Thoughts 

By following these steps and buying your own ISBN number, you are setting yourself up for success as an independent author. Remember, the process doesn’t have to be complicated, and with a little effort, you’ll have your book professionally identified and ready for the world.
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