Why You Need to Invest in ISBNs: Protect Your Work and Avoid Getting Taken Advantage Of

"I'm writing this because I'm tired of authors coming for consulting after they've been burned. As a Publisher at FomenkyPublishing.com and an author myself, I know the game. If you want to protect your work and not get ripped off, come for paid help upfront—before it's too late."

In the world of self-publishing, many authors and independent publishers focus on writing and marketing their books but overlook one crucial element: ISBNs. If you're serious about your work and want to protect your rights, maximize distribution, and ensure you don't get taken advantage of, you need to understand the importance of ISBNs and why they are worth the investment.

 
What Is an ISBN and Why Does It Matter?

An ISBN (International Standard Book Number) is a globally recognized identifier for books. It ensures that your book is uniquely identified across various sales platforms, libraries, and distributors. Each ISBN is assigned to a specific edition and format of a book, helping retailers and readers differentiate between versions.

If you're publishing a book, whether in eBook, paperback, or hardcover format, an ISBN is your book’s fingerprint. Without it, your book might get lost in the system, misattributed, or even exploited by unscrupulous third parties.

 
Why Should You Invest in an ISBN Instead of Using a Free One?

Some self-publishing platforms, including Amazon’s Kindle Direct Publishing (KDP), offer free ISBNs for paperback and hardcover books. While this might seem like a great way to save money, there are significant downsides to using a free ISBN that could cost you in the long run.

Ownership and Control of Your Book
When you purchase your own ISBN, you are the official publisher of record. This means: ✅ You maintain full control over where and how your book is sold. ✅ Your ISBN is registered under your publishing name, boosting credibility. ✅ You can distribute your book across multiple platforms (Amazon, Barnes & Noble, IngramSpark, etc.) without limitations.

With a free ISBN from KDP, Amazon becomes the publisher of record. This means: ❌ You can only use that ISBN on Amazon. ❌ You are limited in how you distribute your book elsewhere. ❌ Your book might not be taken seriously by bookstores or libraries, as they prefer books from independent publishers rather than those labeled as "Amazon published."

 
Protecting Yourself from Exploitation
Using a free ISBN can leave you vulnerable to potential exploitation. Many authors unknowingly fall into traps that limit their control over their work. Here’s how: 📌 If you use Amazon’s free ISBN, they control that number. If you later want to publish your book elsewhere, you must purchase a new ISBN and go through the re-publishing process. 📌 Some shady publishers or scammers take advantage of authors who don’t understand ISBNs by charging exorbitant fees for "publishing packages" that include an ISBN when, in reality, you can buy one yourself for much less.

 
The Difference Between ISBNs for eBooks and Print Books
A common mistake new authors make is assuming that one ISBN is enough for all versions of their book. This is wrong.

📚 Each format of your book (eBook, paperback, hardcover, audiobook) requires a separate ISBN. Here’s why:

Kindle eBooks Do Not Require an ISBN

Amazon assigns an ASIN (Amazon Standard Identification Number) to eBooks.
If you publish exclusively on Amazon, you don’t need to buy an ISBN for your eBook.
Print Books Must Have Unique ISBNs

If you have a paperback and a hardcover version, each needs its own ISBN.
Revised Editions Require New ISBNs

If you make major updates to your book (new cover, significant content changes), you need a new ISBN.
 
ISBNs Help Your Book Get Found
Having an ISBN registered with databases like Bowker (for U.S. authors) increases your book’s discoverability. Libraries, bookstores, and wholesalers use ISBNs to search for books. If your book doesn’t have one, it may never be found outside of Amazon.

Additionally, ISBNs allow your book to be linked to metadata, including: 📌 The title and author 📌 The publisher 📌 The edition and format 📌 The genre and subject categories 📌 Keywords for better discoverability

This metadata is crucial for getting your book into professional distribution channels.

 
ISBNs Give Your Book Professional Credibility
If you plan to build a career as an author or run a publishing business, investing in ISBNs is a no-brainer.

❌ Most bookstores won’t stock books that use Amazon’s free ISBNs. ❌ Many libraries won’t accept books without ISBNs at all.

If you want your book to be taken seriously in the publishing industry, an ISBN is an essential investment.

 
ISBNs for Hoopla, OverDrive, and Library Platforms

If you want your book on Hoopla, OverDrive, Bibliotheca, and other library distribution platforms, you must select Electronic Book Text when purchasing your ISBN.

📖 Hoopla and OverDrive require ISBNs for downloadable eBooks in EPUB and PDF formats. ❌ If you select Digital Online Content, your book may not be recognized as a proper eBook, affecting library distribution. ✅ Best Choice for Self-Publishers: Always select Electronic Book Text when registering your ISBN.

 
How to Get Your Own ISBN Without Overpaying

Here are the official and best sources for buying ISBNs: 📌 Bowker (US authors): Buy ISBNs directly from Bowker (myidentifiers.com).

1 ISBN = $125
10 ISBNs = $295 (best deal for multiple books)
📌 ISBN Canada: Free through Library and Archives Canada. 📌 Nielsen (UK): UK ISBNs are issued by Nielsen. 📌 Thorpe-Bowker (Australia): Australian authors should use Thorpe-Bowker. 🚨 Avoid third-party ISBN sellers who mark up prices or package ISBNs into overpriced publishing services.

 
Final Thoughts: Is an ISBN Worth the Investment?

Absolutely. If you're serious about publishing, ISBNs are worth the investment. ✅ They protect your book ✅ They increase discoverability ✅ They give you full control over your work ✅ They allow you to expand beyond Amazon

💡 Investing in ISBNs is like securing your book’s legal identity. Don’t let short-term savings cost you long-term success.

 
Want to Learn More? For more tips on self-publishing, book marketing, and making money as an author, check out my resources on Gumroad or book a private session https://kellenpr.gumroad.com/l/imgvfk 🚀