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How to get started with ISBN
ISBN stands for International Standard Book Number and is usually associated with a unique ten (old) or thirteen (current format) digit number and optional barcode identifier in books and publications published on an international level. This number is assigned to a publication from the "publisher's" prefix group - ultimately from R. R. Bowker (USA) - http://www.isbn.org. A number only applies to the publication from that publisher in that format only. This establishes this edition separate from any other variations (format, publisher, etc.), and allows for more efficient marketing to distributors, wholesalers, booksellers, and libraries that key on ISBN. In other words, if there is an ISBN on a hardbound book, a softbound edition can't use the same number. Some printers and publishers have numbers that can either be used for free, or for a small fee for publications. Additionally, regardless of who produces the book, one can purchase their own block of numbers. This may help if there is no plan to stay with the same production company. If one uses "printer A's" ISBN for the first edition and for your second printing use "printer B" - you can not use "printer A's" ISBN on the second edition, but if you had your own ISBN, it could be used for the second edition (providing the book product was the same). For more information, check out the ISBN site above. Additionally, an ISBN barcode may be required if you wish your book to be carried in some bookstores.
R. R. Bowker, as America's ISBN agency, requires for fair use that the ISBN be printed on the bottom third of the book's verso (reverse of title page) as well as the bottom third of the back cover. This can be accomplished during publishing, or after a published book has been completed with printed labels. Additionally, the owner of the ISBN is required to complete the application on line to activate the number. ISBN fair use also states that any promotional material for a book carrying an ISBN should include the ISBN.
An activated ISBN places the unique edition of that title in the "Books in Print" reference series, available in print and online from many different places. Additionally, it places the book in the database that most large chain bookstores and many smaller book shops use to special order titles. This is a way to get Barnes & Noble and Books-A-Million to "carry" the book without loosing inventory control, or paying for the privilege. If an author has their own ISBN, they fill these orders directly. Generally, if a publisher ISBN is used, a copy or two stays with the publisher to fill these orders.
A Gregath Publishing Company ISBN can be used for any publication they publish for the author/Copyright holder. The flat fee for this service is $35.00. In addition to this flat usage/filing fee, the book must contain the elements the ISBN agency requires for fair use. This may also add various fees to the publishing such as hard cover back stamping or barcode labels, etc.
Generally called a "Bookland EAN" barcode, the code that appears on the back of the book with the printed ISBN can be used to track pricing and inventory. It is a specific pattern made up of individual bars and spaces, that carries a specific message, that can be read by electronic means (scanner). Most distributors require this bar code, as do some wholesalers and booksellers. A barcode can also make the acquisition job at large libraries easier.
Looking for a barcode provider for your own ISBNs? Gregath can produce 10-digit barcodes for you! This service can be provided as part of a binding package, or provide labels to be placed on current publications using data provided by the customer. Contact us for more information.
Other traditional optional elements that can positively effect sales:
Formal Copyright - http://www.copyright.com
Library of Congress Number - http://www.loc.gov
For more suggestions
on this subject and more, order our book:
G5505-$10.00 WRITING Family
History Or Genealogy For Pleasure and Profit, by The Gregath
Publishing Company, *updated* 2007. ISBN: 0-944619-00-2, 8½x11",
softbound book, 126 pages, suggestions & examples of all facets of your project
for the typist and/or computer user.
Also available on disk. | SCL
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