When you’re ready to publish a book, one question you might have is about ISBNs. What is an ISBN, and do you actually need one?

An ISBN, or International Standard Book Number, is a unique identifier assigned to books. It helps bookstores, libraries, and online retailers track and manage inventory. Think of it like a fingerprint for your book. No two books with the same edition and format will have the same ISBN.

So, do you need one?

That depends. If you’re planning to sell your book through major retailers like Amazon, Barnes & Noble, or independent bookstores, an ISBN is essential. It allows your book to be recognized in their systems, making it available for purchase. If you’re printing a few copies for personal use or distributing only within your own organization, you might not need one.

However, if you’re looking at wide distribution, an ISBN is a must.

You can obtain an ISBN through publishing platforms that sometimes offer free ISBNs, but the catch with free ISBNs is that they often list the provider as the publisher instead of you. They also limit your distribution to a single platform. For instance, if you get a free ISBN from Amazon, you can only use that ISBN to publish on Amazon.

If you want full control over your publishing details, purchasing your own ISBN is the way to go. PinPoint Publishing can provide you with an ISBN at a discounted rate when you hire us for your publishing needs, ensuring you maintain full ownership and control over your book’s details and distribution.

Each format of your book needs its own ISBN. That means a paperback, hardcover, and eBook edition each require a separate ISBN. Audiobooks, on the other hand, do not require an ISBN, unless it is on a physical media item, like a CD or, if it were 30 years ago, a cassette tape. It is important to note, some platforms may still request one.

Ultimately, an ISBN is an investment in your book’s legitimacy. It signals to the world that your book is ready to be part of the global marketplace. If you plan to sell beyond your website or local events, having an ISBN ensures your book is easy to find, track, and purchase.

You don’t have to go through the publishing process alone wondering what you need or don’t need. We can help you!

Let us know what your publishing needs are, and we can get you started today!