A Quick Author Guide to ISBNs
ISBNs are among the most confusing elements for self-publishing authors. Authors often ask, “Should I purchase my own ISBN? Or should I use the one provided by a publishing services company?”
Let’s take a look at the pros and cons of owning your own ISBN. This way, you can make the best decision for you and your book.
But first, here are a few basics.
What is an ISBN?
ISBN is short for “international standard book number.” It’s a 13-digit number that you can find on the back cover of a book, above a bar code. That bar code is a simply a translation of your ISBN into a format that is compatible with scanners in bookstores.
What is the purpose of an ISBN?
It uniquely identifies every book that is published worldwide. An ISBN holds important information such as your title, publisher, and geographic location. This number helps simplify the distribution of your book to publishers, booksellers, libraries, internet retailers, and other supply chain participants around the world.
One thing the ISBN does not do is establish copyright. You as the author are the rightful owner of your intellectual property under copyright laws. An ISBN does not change this.
Do I need an ISBN?
You need an ISBN if you want to sell your book in bookstores, to libraries, or through online retailers like Amazon.com. If you want to print a book privately for just for your family and friends, you may not need an ISBN.
Where do I purchase an ISBN?
The only official source of ISBNs in the United States is Bowker Agency.
Who should purchase the ISBN?
The individual or company that will be listed as the publisher of the book should purchase the ISBN. This is what makes ISBNs important. ISBNs designate the publisher of a book. The publisher is responsible for managing a book long after it is published. The publisher can be you as the author, a publishing services company that you hire, or a traditional publisher.
(If you’re still uncertain which kind of publishing option is best for you, check out our previous blog post called, “Choose Your Own Adventure in Book Publishing.” In it, we explain your three basic paths to publishing. You’ll see that a traditional publisher will expect you to use its ISBNs. So this question is really only for self-publishing authors.)
So now that you understand the basics, let’s get back to your question . . .
Should I purchase my own ISBN? Or should I use the one provided by a publishing services company?
Well, it depends. The real question is, do you want to manage your book after it’s published, or do you want your publishing services company to manage your book for you? There are pros and cons to either option. The right answer for you depends on your goals. Here are some of the factors you want to consider before you make a decision.
Cost
If you purchase your own ISBN, you’ll discover that the cost is surprisingly high. One ISBN through Bowker Agency is $125. And you need a different ISBN for each format of your book. This means you’ll need three ISBNs if you plan to publish your book as a paperback, hardcover, and e-book. Also, you’ll probably want guidance in knowing where and how to purchase your own ISBNs, which may also increase the cost of your publishing plan.
One bit of good news here is that you can purchase ISBNs in blocks that are discounted. For example, a block of 10 ISBNs costs $295. You can save a lot of money if you purchase a block.
In contrast, if you use an ISBN provided by a publisher, the cost is likely less expensive because your publisher purchases ISBNs from Bowker Agency in large blocks. The savings can be passed to you.
Paperwork
If you purchase your own ISBN, you’ll need to complete two extra steps in the publishing process. First, you’ll need to set up a publishing account with your distributor(s). Second, you’ll need to establish an account with Bowker Agency and purchase your ISBNs. Your publishing services company can guide you through the process of setting up your publisher account and ISBNs.
In contrast, these tasks are handled by your publishing services company if you rely on them for ISBNs.
Time
If you establish yourself as a publisher, Amazon says it may take up to 6 weeks to be recognized by retailers. That means it could take another 6 weeks before your book is available online. The way to get around this is to be sure to establish your accounts early in the process. This way, you’ll avoid any delays with the release of your book.
If you use the ISBN of a publishing services company, there is no delay in releasing your book because that company is already recognized by retailers as a publisher.
Image
For some authors, a downside to using their own ISBN is that it publicly lists their name as the publisher on their Amazon page. They’re concerned that their work will not be taken as seriously. One way to get around this is to create a publisher name that isn’t obviously you.
The benefit of using an ISBN from a publishing services company is that it presents a more professional image. This is a primary reason that authors choose to use our ISBNs. It communicates that they’re not a “one-man band” – they have the backing of a company, and their work was refined through a professional process. Readers can’t easily tell whether they are self-published authors or traditionally-published authors. Ultimately, it adds credibility.
Earnings
If you purchase your own ISBN, probably the biggest benefit is that you retain 100% of earnings from online sales. Plus, you also do not have to wait for royalties. The money is deposited directly into your bank account. You can check sales and earnings reports any time you want.
In contrast, if you use the ISBN of a publishing services company, you may be expected to share some of the royalties. You may also have to wait for reports, as publishers usually send reports annually or biannually.
For example, authors who want us to manage their books pay us 15% of their earnings in exchange for our services. They think it’s worth the cost to rely on us to trouble-shoot issues, make changes, handle legalities, and serve as a guide for the lifetime of the book. You need to decide for yourself if you prioritize earnings or assistance.
Independence
If you purchase your own ISBN, you have the freedom to make any changes when it comes to the future of your book. For example, you may decide to change to a new publisher or to stop publishing your book entirely. You can make these changes without having to wait on your publishing services company to make them happen.
If you use the ISBN of a publishing services company, you will need to follow its procedures to make changes to your account. Be sure you read your contract and feel comfortable with the company policies. Even then, your book may be impacted in the worst-case scenario that the company goes out of business. You may want to ask if there are any precautions in place to protect you and your book in this scenario.
Support
You need to consider how much support you want with your book after it is published.
If you purchase your own ISBNs, then you manage your own publishing account. This means that you place your own book orders, read your own royalty reports, and receive your money directly. You decide if and when your book is distributed. In other words, once your book is published, there is no publishing services company between you and your book. You’ll retain control of every aspect of your book moving forward.
If you rely on a publishing services company, these administrative tasks are handled for you. You’ll call the company when you want to place a book order, and they will handle invoicing, ordering, tracking the order, issuing royalty reports, and mailing royalty payments. They’ll also be there to make updates to your account or to answer any questions long after your book is published. Some authors prefer this hassle-free experience and want to make sure someone is around to help them.
The Ultimate Factor
All of these factors will help you make the right decision. Ultimately, the choice to purchase your own ISBN or to use one provided by a publishing services company depends on what brings you greater peace of mind.
Do you value the security of knowing that no one and nothing can come between you and your book, even if it means more cost and hassle? Then publishing your own ISBNs is the way to go.
Or do you value the security of knowing you’ll have a credible image and professional assistance in the years after your book is published, even if it means relying on a company? Then choose a publishing services company that you can trust.
Whatever you decide, you’ll make an informed decision and enjoy a more peaceful process.
Ella Ritchie is the founder of Stellar Communications Houston, business communication and book publishing team that brings clarity, quality, and integrity to nonfiction authors, business leaders, nonprofit organizations, and federal government agencies. Connect with her on LinkedIn or Facebook, or check out the website for more information.