Introduction
If you’re a self-published author, you’re probably familiar with the option to use a free ISBN number provided by Amazon. While it might seem like a cost-effective and easy solution, there are many drawbacks to using a generic ISBN for your book. In this article, we’ll explore the reasons why investing in your own ISBN is a wise decision for any author.
The Limitations of Using Free ISBNs
While a free ISBN might seem like a convenient solution, there are several limitations to consider:
Inability to use the same ISBN on other platforms
When you use Amazon’s free ISBN, you’re essentially giving up control over your book’s ISBN. This means you cannot use the same ISBN on other platforms such as Barnes & Noble or Apple iBooks, limiting your book’s reach and exposure.
Limited customization options
A free ISBN number does not allow you to customize your book’s metadata, such as the title or author name, which can adversely affect your book’s discoverability on Amazon.
Potential for confusion with other books that use the same free ISBN
Amazon’s free ISBNs are assigned to a particular edition of a book, but not necessarily to a specific author or publisher. This increases the risk of confusion with other books that use the same free ISBN, leading to issues with distribution and sales.
The Benefits of Investing in Your Own ISBN
Conversely, there are numerous advantages to having your own ISBN number:
Increased options for customization and branding
Having your own ISBN allows you to customize your book’s metadata, including the author name, title, and cover art. This increases your options for branding, which can help distinguish your book and create a unique presence online.
Ability to track and manage your book’s sales and distribution
With your own ISBN, you can keep track of your book’s sales and distribution channels, allowing you to adjust your marketing strategy and target specific audiences.
Overall professionalism that comes with having your own unique ISBN
Having your own ISBN gives your book a level of professionalism and legitimacy that cannot be achieved with a generic ISBN. It conveys a sense of ownership and control over the publishing process, which can be reassuring to readers and other industry professionals.
Understanding the ISBN System
Before we dive further, let’s explore what an ISBN is, how it works, and the different types available:
In-depth explanation of what an ISBN is and how it works
An ISBN (International Standard Book Number) is a unique 13-digit identifier used to identify a specific book title or edition. It provides a standard way of identifying books and facilitates communication between publishers, booksellers, libraries, and other industry professionals.
Differences between ISBNs for print books and e-books
ISBNs are assigned to both physical books (print) and e-books, but they are not interchangeable. Print books have a unique print ISBN, while e-books have a separate e-ISBN. This is because e-books may have different formats, such as EPUB or MOBI, which require a unique identifier for tracking and distribution.
Global standards for ISBNs
ISBNs are governed by the International ISBN Agency, which sets global standards for the assignment and use of ISBNs. In the United States, the agency responsible for assigning ISBNs is Bowker, which is the only official ISBN agency for the US market.
Various options available for obtaining an ISBN number
There are several options available for obtaining an ISBN, including purchasing a single ISBN directly from Bowker, or obtaining multiple ISBNs through a third-party publisher or distributor. The cost of an ISBN varies based on the number of ISBNs purchased and other factors, such as the country of publication.
The Risks of Using a Free ISBN
Now that we’ve explored the benefits of investing in your own ISBN, let’s discuss the risks of using a free ISBN:
Potential pitfalls of using a free ISBN on Amazon
When you use a free ISBN on Amazon, you run the risk of losing control over your book’s metadata, which can negatively affect your book’s discoverability and sales. Amazon may also remove your book from their platform if they suspect the ISBN has been used inappropriately or does not meet their standards.
Risks of losing control of your book’s metadata
When you use a free ISBN, you’re essentially relinquishing control over your book’s metadata to Amazon. This limits your ability to customize your book’s title, author name, and other key elements that can affect your book’s discoverability and sales.
Inability to transfer your book to another publisher
Using a free ISBN ties your book to Amazon’s publishing platform, making it difficult to transfer your book to another publisher if you decide to switch platforms or pursue traditional publishing opportunities.
Lack of ownership and control that comes with using a free ISBN
While a free ISBN may seem like an easy solution for self-published authors, it ultimately gives up control and ownership of the publishing process. Investing in your own ISBN allows you to have full control over your book’s metadata, sales, and distribution.
How to Obtain Your Own ISBN
Obtaining your own ISBN is a straightforward process, and it gives you full control over your book’s publishing and distribution. Here’s what you need to know:
Step-by-step guide on how to obtain your own ISBN
The first step in obtaining an ISBN is to register with the ISBN agency in your country, which for US authors is Bowker. Once you’ve registered, you can purchase ISBNs directly from Bowker or through other third-party publishers or distributors.
Process for registering with the ISBN agency in your country
The process for registering with the ISBN agency varies depending on your country of publication. In the United States, authors can register with Bowker through their website and purchase ISBNs directly from their website.
Costs associated with obtaining an ISBN
The cost of an ISBN varies depending on the number of ISBNs purchased and other factors such as the country of publication. In the United States, a single ISBN purchased through Bowker costs $125, while purchasing a block of 10 ISBNs costs $295.
Various options available for obtaining multiple ISBNs if you have more than one book to publish
If you have more than one book to publish, it’s cost-effective to purchase a block of ISBNs rather than individual ISBNs for each book. You can also purchase ISBNs through third-party publishers or distributors, which may offer discounted rates for bulk purchases.
Conclusion
Investing in your own ISBN is a wise decision for any self-published author. It provides greater control over the publishing process, increases options for branding and customization, and conveys a level of professionalism and legitimacy that cannot be achieved with a free ISBN. By taking control of your book’s publishing process, you can ensure its success in the highly competitive world of self-publishing.
