ISBN Service for Authors

An ISBN (International Standard Book Number) is a unique numeric identifier assigned to books and related products worldwide. It serves as a crucial tool for authors and publishers in the modern publishing landscape.

For authors, an ISBN helps establish their work as a unique product in the marketplace. It enables more effective marketing, accurate tracking of sales, and easier discoverability of their books by readers, libraries, and retailers. An ISBN links authors' works to comprehensive book databases, making it easier for potential readers to find and purchase their books.

Each edition or format of a book requires its own unique ISBN. An ISBN (International Standard Book Number) serves as a distinct identifier for a specific publication, allowing it to be easily recognized and tracked in the global book market. When you make significant changes to the content of your book, such as revising the text, updating the cover, or releasing it in a different format (e.g., hardcover to paperback, eBook, or audiobook), a new ISBN must be assigned. This ensures that each version of your book is distinguishable in databases, bookstores, and distribution channels.

When you publish your book through ISBNdirect, the publisher name listed on platforms like Bookwire will be "Staten House". However, it's essential to understand that this listing is solely for administrative purposes and should not be misunderstood as us claiming any rights or royalties to your work.

Yes, you can keep 100% of your royalties and copyrights when you obtain an ISBN with ISBNdirect. We believe in providing authors with the freedom and control over their publishing journey, which is why we do not require any percentage of your royalties or copyrights.

The ISBN you purchase and register is a one-time purchase. It does not come with an expiration date or any recurring fees. So, you can rest assured that once you've got your ISBN, you're all set!

To secure an ISBN, we don't require any information from you. However, to list your book on Bowker Bookwire, essential details are needed: the title, medium, format, first genre, contributor type (either individual or organization), contributor name, contributor function, publication date, title status, target audience, and your choice of specific price details or a set fixed price. Please have these mandatory fields prepared for submission.

Yes, unlike most of our competitors, we do not have any restrictions on the use of our ISBNs. We support almost all platforms, including Kindle Direct Publishing, Lulu, PublishDrive and Barnes & Noble.