Self-Publishing Authors' Easy Guide: Obtaining an ISBN for Your Publication
In the world of self-publishing, an ISBN (International Standard Book Number) plays a crucial role. Amazon's version of an ISBN is known as an ASIN, but for physical books, an ISBN is essential.
The cost of an ISBN in the U.S. varies, with Bowker offering single ISBNs for $125, while some printing and distribution services provide discounted ISBNs. In contrast, Canadians can secure free ISBNs from Library and Archives Canada. The costs in other countries may differ.
When it comes to ebooks, the need for an ISBN can be subjective. Some ebook distributors require an ISBN, while major ebook retailers often don't. It's essential to check with the service used for ebook distribution to determine if an ISBN is necessary. Audiobooks distributed digitally through services like Audible or Apple Books do not require an ISBN. However, if an audiobook is produced physically, like a book on CD, an ISBN is required.
Each translation of a book is considered a separate entity and will need its own ISBN. This is important to remember for authors planning to publish their work in multiple languages.
Using free ISBNs from platforms like Amazon has its advantages and disadvantages. On the positive side, they reduce upfront expenses and simplify the publishing process. However, they come with potential drawbacks. Platforms like Amazon are listed as the publishers, limiting your publishing identity, and may face challenges getting into brick-and-mortar bookstores or libraries.
It's recommended to purchase your own ISBN if you want to be recognised as the publisher and maximise future distribution options. This allows you to maintain full control over your publishing identity and switch printers or distributors more easily.
For those embarking on the self-publishing journey, tools like Scrivener for writing and ProWritingAid for editing can be beneficial. For book design and formatting, Atticus is a good option for DIY authors, while Ebook Launch offers formatting services for books.
In summary, understanding the costs, benefits, and best practices of ISBNs is essential for self-published authors. While free ISBNs provide an economical, easy option, purchasing your own ISBN can help you maintain control over your publishing identity and maximise future distribution opportunities.
- At a book launch, the importance of an ISBN (International Standard Book Number) for physical books cannot be overstated, as it plays a crucial role in self-publishing.
- For authors planning to publish their work in multiple languages, each translation of a book is treated as a separate entity and will necessitate its own ISBN.
- In the realm of book marketing, it's crucial for self-published authors to understand that using free ISBNs from platforms like Amazon might lead to challenges in being recognised as the publisher and may limit options for distribution.
- In addition to ISBNs, publishers like Rocket can assist in the self-publishing process, offering services for book design, formatting, and even marketing in lifestyle, fashion-and-beauty, food-and-drink, home-and-garden genres, as well as entertainment books.
