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Metadata & cataloging

ISBN

International Standard Book Number

Also known as: ISBN-10

Official source (opens in a new tab)

A number that identifies one specific edition and format of a book. A hardcover, paperback, ebook, and audiobook sold as separate products generally use different ISBNs so retailers, wholesalers, and libraries can order the right one. Some platforms let you publish a platform-specific ebook or audiobook without buying one.

ISBN-13 is the current 13-digit form, beginning with 978 or 979. Older books may also show an ISBN-10. A 978 number can be converted between the two forms, while a 979 number has no ISBN-10 equivalent. The registrant portion also points to the publisher that obtained the number.

When you’ll meet it
Before distribution or sale
Usually handled by
Publisher or author-publisher

Why it matters to you

Nearly every system your book lives in, from Amazon to WorldCat, keys its record to an ISBN. If the wrong title, author, or format is attached to an ISBN, the mistake spreads everywhere the number goes. Record every ISBN your book has and check what is attached to each one.