Guide for Self-Publishing Authors on Obtaining an ISBN
In the world of publishing, ISBNs (International Standard Book Numbers) play a crucial role. Here's a breakdown of the key differences between free and purchased ISBNs for authors.
For those on a tight budget or planning to publish only one or a few books, free ISBNs can be a cost-effective solution. These are often provided by self-publishing platforms like Amazon KDP, BookBaby, or Blurb. However, the major downside is that the self-publishing platform is listed as the publisher on the ISBN, limiting your control and rights over the book. This can restrict your ability to sell or distribute the book outside the platform.
On the other hand, purchasing your own ISBN offers several advantages. With a purchased ISBN, you have full control and ownership over your book's publishing record, with your name or your own imprint listed as the official publisher. This allows for wider distribution, including in brick-and-mortar stores, and is essential if you want your book to be carried by physical bookstores. The downside is that purchased ISBNs involve upfront costs, with prices ranging from around £89 in the UK (for a single ISBN) to $125 in the US. If you plan to publish multiple books, it may be more financially feasible to buy ISBNs in bulk.
Here's a comparison of the main aspects of free and purchased ISBNs:
| Aspect | Free ISBN | Purchased ISBN | |------------------------|-------------------------------------------|---------------------------------------| | Cost | Free | Around $125 per ISBN (US prices) | | Publisher Name on ISBN | Platform (e.g., Amazon) | You or your own imprint | | Rights & Control | Limited; platform effectively "publisher" | Full control over publishing rights | | Distribution | Restricted to platform’s ecosystem | Wider distribution, including bookstores | | Long-term Benefits | Suitable for single or hobby projects | Better for professional/self-publishing career |
For authors focused on long-term success, multi-platform sales, and control over their publishing brand, purchasing their own ISBNs is generally the preferred choice. Those publishing a single book on a tight budget may start with free ISBNs but could face limitations if they want to expand later.
In addition to the ISBN, authors should consider tools like Scrivener for writing and ProWritingAid for editing, and services like Atticus for DIY book design and formatting, and Ebook Launch for professional formatting services.
It's also worth noting that printing a book in different formats (e.g., paperback and hardcover) requires a separate ISBN for each format, and each translation of a book will need its own ISBN. Audiobooks don't require an ISBN if they're distributed digitally through services like Audible or Apple Books, but if produced physically, like a book on CD, they require an ISBN. If you publish a new edition, you'll need new ISBNs for each print version.
In conclusion, choosing between a free and purchased ISBN depends on your publishing goals, budget, and long-term plans. It's essential to understand the implications of each option to make an informed decision.
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