This Month's Topic:Tips to Self Publishing

One of the first decisions a self-published author must make is determining the intended audience for the book. Many authors simply wish to give their books to friends and family, or use them as fundraisers. However, if you intend to sell your books, you will probably need to acquire an ISBN(International Standard Book Number).

The International Standard Book Number, or ISBN, is a unique identifier for books that are intended to be sold commercially. A similar identifier, the International Standard Serial Number (ISSN), is used for periodical publications such as magazines.
 
After January 1, 2007, ISBNs must be thirteen digits long. Each edition and variation (except reprints) of a book receives its own ISBN. The number consists of four or five parts:
1) a GS1 Prefix, either 978 or 979
2) the country of origin or language area code
3) the publisher
4) the item number, and
5) a checksum character or check digit

The publisher number is assigned by the national ISBN agency. There is, in general, no requirement for a publisher to assign an ISBN to a book nor for that book to display its number. However, many bookstores will only deal with items bearing an ISBN.

How many numbers do I need?
Each format your book takes will require an individual ISBN. For example, a hardcover version will require a different number than the softcover; an E-book will require yet another number, etc. Reprints do not require new ISBNs.

What is the application process?
ISBNs are sold to publishers, not individual authors. To qualify, a
publisher must have several titles in print by multiple authors. If you are only publishing a small number of titles and don¹t need a whole block of ten numbers IGI can assign an ISBN that is registered to IGI Publishing. Should anyone seeking to buy your book inquire for the publisher¹s contact information using the ISBN number they will be directed to us. We will forward that request to the contact of record for that title, or, if IGI is handling Fulfillment for that title we will take the order and process it, often shipping the same day.

What if I am a small publisher and want to acquire my own ISBN numbers?
If you are a publisher with several titles planned you may purchase a block of ISBN numbers yourself by going to the R.R. Bowker Agency website. They are the national ISBN agency for the North American continent.

An ISBN should be applied for before the book is printed, as the number will be printed on the copyright page. In addition, IGI can create a barcode for your ISBN to appear on the back cover of your book.
 
Why IGI Publishing?
IGI Publishing is your single resource for all things related to the publishing of your book. From layout and typesetting to printing, binding, distribution and everything in between, contact IGI Publishing today to get started!