Publishers often face the responsibility of assigning identification numbers to their publications, such as International Standard Serial Numbers (ISSN) and International Standard Book Numbers (ISBN). Both are essential for uniquely identifying publications, but they serve different purposes and are used in different contexts. This guide will help publishers understand the key distinctions between ISSN and ISBN, and how they should be applied.

What is an ISSN?

An ISSN is a unique number assigned to serial publications, such as journals, magazines, newspapers, and online publications that are released periodically. It's essential for cataloging and organizing serials in libraries and databases. The ISSN is composed of eight digits divided into two groups of four with a hyphen. If you don't have an ISSN, you can obtain one from the International ISSN center by contacting your local ISSN Agency.

An ISSN can be converted into an ISSN barcode (in EAN-13 format) by adding "977" in front of the first seven digits of the ISSN, followed by a two-digit price code (typically "00"), and then recalculating the check digit (the 13th digit). Sometimes, an additional two-digit barcode is included to denote the issue number (e.g., "01" for issue 1).

What is an ISBN?

An ISBN is a 13-digit unique identifier assigned to books and similar products, including e-books, audiobooks, and microforms. ISBNs are crucial for tracking and managing the distribution of books in the market. If you need an ISBN, you can get one from the International ISBN Agency by finding your local ISBN Agency.

An ISBN barcode is an EAN-13 barcode that encodes the 13-digit ISBN. Typically, the ISBN is printed above the barcode.

The primary difference between ISSN and ISBN is the type of publication they identify. ISSN is for serials that are issued periodically, while ISBN is for books and book-like products. Additionally, an ISSN usually refers to the entire publication as a whole, whereas an ISBN can be specific to different editions or formats of a book.

In Summary

Publishers must allocate ISSNs and ISBNs correctly to avoid confusion and maintain accurate records.

In conclusion, ISSNs and ISBNs are critical tools for publishers to uniquely identify and categorize their publications. Understanding the distinctions between them is crucial for managing and promoting works in the publishing industry. By following the guidelines in this guide, publishers can ensure the accurate assignment of ISSNs and ISBNs, thereby enhancing their publications' visibility and accessibility to readers and stakeholders.