How to Get an ISBN for Your Book

Getting an ISBN is an important step for many authors preparing to publish a book. An ISBN identifies your book and helps bookshops, libraries, distributors and publishing systems recognise the title and format. In South Africa, ISBNs are issued through the National Library of South Africa.

The NLSA states that eligible South African authors and publishers can apply online and receive an ISBN free of charge. Authors should apply early enough because processing takes time and the ISBN needs to be added before final layout and cover files are completed.

If you plan to sell your book publicly, approach bookshops, supply libraries, distribute formally or publish professionally, you should consider applying for an ISBN. If the book is only for private use, such as a small family history printed for relatives, you may not need one. An author printing 200 copies of a memoir to sell at a launch should apply. An author printing five copies of a private family tribute may not have the same requirement.

Before applying, prepare the title of the book, author name, contact details, publisher or self publisher details, format and expected publishing date. If you are publishing more than one format, such as print and electronic, make sure you understand how those formats should be listed.

Complete the ISBN process through the NLSA. Make sure all information is accurate. The ISBN will be connected to your publication details, so avoid guessing information that may change. If your title is not final, it may be better to finalise the title first.

Once the ISBN is issued, it should be added to the copyright page. The copyright page may also include the book title, author name, copyright notice, publisher details, year of publication, rights statement and printing information. The ISBN should be checked carefully. A wrong digit can create confusion. Do not type it from memory.

For printed books, the ISBN is commonly represented as a barcode on the back cover. The barcode must be placed neatly and should not interfere with important design elements. This is why the cover designer should receive the ISBN before finalising the back cover. A common mistake is designing the back cover first, then later trying to squeeze in a barcode — the result can look cramped.

Store the ISBN details in a safe folder with your final manuscript, cover files and publishing documents. You may need the number later for reprints, distributor forms, bookshop submissions or website listings.

Apply early, provide accurate information and add the ISBN before final printing. Do not treat it as a last minute admin task. It is part of professional publishing preparation.