This is a quick reference summary of what you need to know about ISBN numbers when it comes to eBooks. There are resource links at the bottom of this article.
Five basics:
1. A print book ISBN cannot be reused for the eBook.
2. One unique ISBN per type of book. A type is Kindle, ePub (Nook, Apple, etc.), PDF, audio, print, etc.
3. Change the book beyond typos and you need a new ISBN.
4. There is no such thing as an e-ISBN.
5. You do not need an ISBN to publish using Amazon Kindle Direct Publishing (KDP) or Barnes & Noble Pubit (Nook).
What is an ISBN?
This stands for International Standard Book Number. You will see references to “ISBN10″ and “ISBN-13″. The 13 version is the same number but with a prefix to identify it as being for book publishing. Most people will show both numbers in the book.
How much is it?
Currently $125 for one, 10 for $250, 100 for $575 and 1000 for $1000.
R.R. Bower is the exclusive sales agent in the United States. They have a separate website devoted to this topic: www.myidentifiers.com .
Can you get a free ISBN?
Yes. Some publishing services firms will make it available for free (like Smashwords) while others may charge a nominal amount ($10 to $25 each).
What’s the catch with a free ISBN?
Your name won’t be listed as the publisher. ISBN’s are registered to a “publisher” when sold so if you get one “free” or as part of a publishing package you buy from someone, the master record will show that company as the “publisher”.
If you want to be listed as the publisher you should buy your own ISBN.
When is it required?
It is up to the store selling your book or eBook whether or not you need an ISBN.
What if you have published a book or eBook and you are changing it. Do you need a new one or can you use the old one?
Unless you are making minor changes like fixing typos, you need to assign a new ISBN. Adding more information or changing information requires a new ISBN.
Can you use the same ISBN for both Kindle and ePub?
No. You need a separate ISBN for each type of format. Kindle, ePub, audio, print, etc. are separate formats and each requires its own ISBN.
Do you put it in the eBook?
Yes, add the number to the copyright page of your eBook.
You can put all the numbers together on the copyright page or add the appropriate ISBN to the file type you are publishing. For example:
ISBN 13: 978-0-9999999-9-9 (Paperback edition)
ISBN 13: 978-0-9999999-9-9 (Kindle edition)
ISBN 13: 978-0-9999999-9-9 (ePub edition)
If you buy…
Don’t forget to return to your Bowker MyIdentifiers account and complete the information for each ISBN assignment. This is very important! The data is shared with book industry databases such as libraries and other retailers. Without it, they won’t know the book exists should someone ask for it.
RESOURCES
ISBN defined (Wikipedia)
Great job David. Can we reprint in the PWSD newsletter for May 2012?
I actually picked that up even though I have a physical copy that is still in my TBR pile! I’ve been enjoying reading on my kindle more these days (especially since I can change font size guess I’m getting old).I’m sure to get to it faster now that it’s on my kindle too Then I can let myself by The Wood Queen finally!
So, If you buy 10 isbn’s for $250.00, can you save them to use as needed?
The short answer is yes. They don’t expire.
Hello,
After I buy the ISBN, add mandatory information and submit for approval. After it is approved, can I go to te ISBN and complete other information, such as, add cover page, size of the book, etc?
Thank you for your advice.
Best,
Milan
Yes, that is the procedure.