Getting Started With ISBNs And Barcodes For Self-Publishing
So, you’ve decided to take the plunge into the world of self-publishing. Congratulations! One of the key things you’ll need to get familiar with is ISBNs and barcodes. These little numbers and lines may seem daunting at first, but fear not – we’re here to guide you through the process.
What is an ISBN?
An ISBN, or International Standard Book Number, is a unique identifier for books. It helps publishers, retailers, and libraries locate and identify specific titles. Having an ISBN for your book is crucial if you want to sell it through major retailers like Amazon or Barnes & Noble. Each format of your book (eBook, paperback, hardcover) will need its own ISBN.
How to get an ISBN
Getting an ISBN is a relatively straightforward process. In the United States, you can purchase an ISBN through Bowker, the official ISBN agency. You can buy a single ISBN for your book or a block of ISBNs if you plan to publish multiple titles. Once you have your ISBN, it will be assigned to your book and included in the book’s metadata.
Learn more about the importance of ISBNs in this post.
What is a barcode?
A barcode is a graphical representation of your book’s ISBN. It is what retailers use to scan and track your book in their inventory. Without a barcode, your book will not be able to be sold through traditional retail channels. Barcodes are typically placed on the back cover of your book.
Read about how to design a professional book cover that includes a barcode in this post.
How to get a barcode
Once you have your ISBN, you can generate a barcode for your book. There are online tools and services that can help you create a barcode that complies with industry standards. Make sure to test your barcode to ensure that it scans correctly before sending your book to print.
Check out this post on how to format your book for print-on-demand services.
Why are ISBNs and barcodes important?
ISBNs and barcodes are essential for self-published authors who want to distribute their books widely. They make your book more accessible to retailers, libraries, and readers. Having a professional-looking barcode on your book can also instill confidence in potential buyers that your book is of high quality.
In conclusion, ISBNs and barcodes may seem like a hassle at first, but they are necessary tools for self-published authors. By understanding how to obtain and use them correctly, you can increase the visibility and credibility of your book in the marketplace. Don’t let the process intimidate you – with a little research and persistence, you’ll be well on your way to successful self-publishing.
Now, go forth and conquer the world of self-publishing with your newfound knowledge of ISBNs and barcodes!
Remember to check out Edit Mojo for more tips and tricks on self-publishing.
Happy publishing!