An ISBN, or International Standard Book Number, is a unique identifier used globally to catalog and track books. Each ISBN is a 13-digit code that acts as a digital fingerprint, distinguishing one title or edition of a book from another. This identifier is essential for publishers, retailers, libraries, and online bookstores, as it helps streamline ordering, inventory management, and sales tracking.
An ISBN contains specific information about the book, such as:
- Country or Language Group: It identifies where the book was published.
- Publisher: It pinpoints the publisher associated with the book.
- Title and Edition: It differentiates between different titles or editions of the same book.
- Check Digit: The final digit verifies the accuracy of the ISBN.
An ISBN is necessary if you want to sell your book through most major retailers or make it available in libraries. Each format or edition of a book (like hardcover, paperback, or e-book) requires its own ISBN. While an ISBN isn’t required to self-publish and distribute your book independently, having one greatly enhances the book’s accessibility and discoverability in the marketplace.