HOW TO GET ISBN FOR YOUR BOOK

What is ISBN?

The International Standard Book Number (ISBN) is a unique book identification numeric code which can be allocated to any single book - whether it is printed or electronically available. The ISBN must be 13 digits in size if allocated on or after January 1, 2007, and 10 digits if allocated before that time.

Do you need ISBN?

While publishing a book, you may decide not to have an ISBN. But, it is always a good idea to get one ISBN allocated for your book. ISBN helps to provide the book an international identity and facilitates the sale of the book to different bookstores, distribution channels, and libraries throughout different countries.

WHEN YOU DO NEED A NEW ISBN

• New editions

• New Publisher

• Revised editions

• Change of format

• Breaking a title in series

• Different product forms (hardback, paperback, audiobook, electronic publication etc.)

• Different electronic formats (.pdf, .lit, .html, .pdb etc.)

• New types (novel, graphic novel etc.)

WHEN YOU DON'T NEED A NEW ISBN

• Unchanged impression/reprint of same book (same format, same publisher)

• Price change(same format, same publisher)

In India, you can have your own free ISBN by applying to Raja Rammohan National Agency for ISBN. By default, you need to generate your own EAN barcode, as they DO NOT provide the same along with the ISBN. There is no fee associated with it, and it may take approximately 10 to 20 days to get the ISBN in your hand if approved.