You’ve finally finished your manuscript. Your heart’s in it, your soul’s in it, and now it’s time to get it out there. But wait—someone asks, “Did you get your ISBN?” and suddenly you feel like you’ve missed an important step. Let’s fix that.
At KBook Publishing (KBP), we’re all about helping indie authors become informed, empowered, and professionally published. So, here’s a no-nonsense breakdown of 11 crucial facts about ISBNs—because if you’re self-publishing, this is knowledge you can’t afford to skip.
1. What Is an ISBN, Really?
An ISBN (International Standard Book Number) is a unique 13-digit identifier for books. Think of it like your book’s fingerprint. It tells bookstores, libraries, and distributors exactly what your book is and where it comes from.
2. If You’re Selling Your Book, You’ll Need One
Planning to sell your book on Amazon, in stores, or through other online platforms? You’ll need an ISBN to get listed, discovered, and distributed properly.
3. Each Format Requires Its Own ISBN
Print book, eBook, hardcover, audiobook—they’re all different products in the eyes of retailers. That means each version needs its own ISBN. No shortcuts here.
4. ISBNs Are Not Always Free
In the U.S., ISBNs are sold through Bowker (myidentifiers.com). One ISBN costs about $125, but if you’re serious about publishing multiple titles or formats, it’s cheaper to buy them in bulk. Some platforms like Amazon KDP offer free ISBNs for print books, but in that case, they are listed as the publisher—not you.
5. ISBNs Are One-Time Use Only
Once an ISBN is assigned to a book, it can’t be reused. New edition? New ISBN. Simple as that.
6. They’re Used Internationally
ISBNs are recognized across the world, which makes them essential if you’re looking to distribute globally. It’s the difference between being a local writer and having an international presence.
7. ISBNs Contain Data
Each ISBN isn’t just a number—it’s a code packed with details about the book: the publisher, the language, the title, and the format. This helps retailers, libraries, and databases categorize your book accurately.
8. Want to Be a Publisher? Buy a Block
If you intend to publish multiple books, then it will be more economical to obtain ISBNs in bulk. A package of ten ISBNs is $295; the more you purchase, the more affordable it becomes. You can also consider becoming your own publisher in this way. Not sure how? KBP assists the authors in managing this every day.
9. ISBNs Are Not Copyright Protection
ISBNs and copyrights are two different things altogether. While the ISBN serves to ensure that your book is recognizable in the marketplace, the copyright serves to protect your ideas. You need both.
10. You Might Not Need One for eBooks (Depending on Where You Publish)
It is noteworthy that Amazon has its own numbering system for Kindle eBooks; therefore, it does not request the ISBN code. However, if you are going to distribute in Apple Books, Google Play, Kobo, or any other store, you may need an ISBN. Plan accordingly.
11. ISBNs Add Credibility
The bottom line is that books with ISBNs seem more legitimate. Period. They are indexed, can be retrieved, and are more likely to be ordered or put on the shelves for further study. When advertising your book, applying for a publisher’s consideration, seeking space in bookstores, and entering literary competitions, ISBN can make all the difference.
So, Do You Really Need an ISBN?
If it is a personal journal or non-commercial, you may not necessarily need to copyright it. However, if you are serious about being published and placing your works up for sale and having people read them, then yes, you need an ISBN.
And if ISBNs, metadata, and distribution sound dreadful to you, you are not the only one. That is why KBook Publishing can serve as your go-to solution for your book publishing needs. We guide authors from manuscript to market with professionalism, work within budget constraints, and explain the process every step of the way. Leave all the technicalities to KBP so you can write the next chapter of your career.