How to Create an ISBN
ISBNs, or International Standard Book Numbers, are used to identify published books for easier indexing and commercial marketing. Each title from each publisher is given a unique 10- or 13-digit code. ISBNs can be assigned only by approved ISBN agencies, which vary by the country in which the book is published. In the United States, all ISBNs are assigned to the publisher by the United States ISBN Agency. Once an application is submitted, it takes about 15 business days for processing and assigning the ISBN. Faster processing is available for a fee. The assigned ISBN or ISBN blocks are emailed to the publisher.
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Instructions
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Applying for Single ISBN
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Open any Internet browser on your computer and navigate to myidentifiers.com.
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Select "Buy Now."
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Enter the appropriate log-in information or create a new account.
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Complete the application for an ISBN, including payment information, and submit the application.
Applying for Blocks of ISBNs
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To obtain a block of 10 or more ISBNs, open your Internet browser and navigate to isbn.org.
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Select the appropriate application form (English or Spanish language) under the section titled "Order ISBNs." Note that the language reference is to the language used for the application, not to the language in which the book is written.
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Complete the application, selecting the desired number of ISBNs, the processing time and any additional services.
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Submit the application.
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Tips & Warnings
Once you have received your ISBN, you will likely also want to apply for copyright of your material. In the United States, this is done through the U.S. Copyright Office at copyright.gov. Although international law indicates authors automatically own the copyright to their material, actually applying for and receiving copyright will help should any issues arise regarding plagiarism or other unauthorized use of your material.
You will also want to list the book in "Books in Print" through bowkerlink.com. Most retailers and consumers use this source to identify available books.
References
- Photo Credit a stack of books image by Mat Hayward from Fotolia.com
