How To Get An ISBN Number For Your Self-Published Book?

As a self-published author, getting your book into the hands of readers is one of the most rewarding experiences. But before your book can reach readers, there’s one crucial step you must take: obtaining an ISBN (International Standard Book Number). This unique identifier helps booksellers, libraries, and online retailers catalog your work.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the process of getting an ISBN for your self-published book.

Why Do You Need an ISBN?

Let’s first understand why you need one:

• Identification: An ISBN is a unique identifier for your book, making it easier for booksellers, libraries, and online retailers to find and sell your book.
• Professional Recognition: It shows that your book is professionally published and ready for distribution.
• Global Accessibility: With an ISBN, your book is recognized worldwide and can be cataloged in databases used by book distributors and libraries.

In essence, obtaining an ISBN helps your book gain visibility and credibility in the book industry.

How To Obtain Your ISBN Number?

Step 1: Decide the Type of ISBN You Need

Begin the process by deciding what type of ISBN your book requires. This depends on the formats you plan to publish your book in.

• Print ISBN: If you’re publishing a physical copy of your book, whether hardcover or paperback, you’ll need a print ISBN.
• E-book ISBN: If you’re publishing a digital version of your book (eBook), a separate ISBN will be required for that format.

If you plan to publish both a print version and an eBook version, you will need to get an ISBN for each format.

Step 2: Gather the Required Information

Then, make sure you have all the necessary details handy. You will need to provide the following information when registering for your ISBN:

• Book Title: The name of your book as it appears on the cover.
• Author’s Name: The name(s) of the author(s) as they will appear in the book.
• Publisher Information: If you’re self-publishing, you are the publisher. You’ll need to provide your publishing imprint name.
• Book Format: Whether it’s a hardcover, paperback, or eBook.
• Book Description: A summary of your book.

Having this information handy will make the registration process go more smoothly.

Step 3: Purchase Your ISBN

To get an ISBN for your self-published book, you’ll need to purchase an ISBN number from an authorized agency.

Here’s how the purchasing process works:

• Choose Your ISBN Package:

ISBNs are typically sold individually or in packages (if you plan to publish multiple books). Consider how many ISBNs you’ll need, based on the number of different formats (print or digital) you plan to publish.

• Complete the Purchase:

Once you’ve chosen the package, proceed with the purchase. ISBNs can usually be purchased online, and payment is typically made by credit card.

Step 4: Register Your ISBN

Once you’ve purchased your ISBN, the next step is to register it. This step is crucial because it helps book retailers, libraries, and other book distributors identify your book.

Here’s what you need to do:

• Provide Book Metadata:

 During the registration process, you’ll input your book’s details, such as title, author name, publisher name, and book description.

• Update Information:

Make sure to double-check that all details are accurate. Once your ISBN is registered, it will appear in book databases used by bookstores and libraries.

Step 5: Use Your ISBN for Distribution

Now that you have your ISBN, you can use it to distribute your book to retailers, libraries, and online platforms. Be sure to include your ISBN on the copyright page of your book and in all your listings on book distribution platforms.

Each format of your book (print and eBook) will need a separate ISBN for proper cataloging. Make sure you have the correct ISBN for each version.

Step 6: Keep Your ISBN Information Updated

Once your ISBN is registered, it’s essential to keep the information associated with it up-to-date.

 For example, if you release a new edition of your book or make significant changes (like a title change), you will need to update your ISBN information. This ensures that your book’s data remains accurate and properly cataloged.

Final Takeaway!

Obtaining an ISBN is an essential step in the self-publishing process. With the correct ISBN in hand, your book will gain the recognition it deserves, making it easier for readers, retailers, and libraries to find and purchase your work. 

By following the guide, you can ensure that your book is appropriately identified and cataloged, opening the door for greater exposure and success in the publishing world.

Take the next step in your publishing journey and purchase an ISBN today—it’s the key to getting your book into the hands of readers worldwide!

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