What is an ISBN Number? (And How Do You Get One in Canada?)

by | Jun 5, 2015 | Self Publishing Books

ISBN NumberSo you’re ready to self publish your book? If you’re in Canada, there is some good news. The ISBN number (the International Standard Book Number … you know that little number above the bar code on the back of a book?) is free.

But what is that little number? It’s a numerical way to identify certain types of publications. The important thing you should know is that EVERY format you publish in needs it’s own ISBN.

So, if you’re planning to have a hard cover, soft cover, KOBO, Kindle and iBook you’re going to need five different ISBN’s for your book.

It’s also important to understand that every format has it’s own ISBN number because, if you have the goal of becoming a best selling book, you need to understand that it’s based on the sales performance of ONE ISBN number. The official title of best seller doesn’t come from aggregating your sales in all different formats, it comes from the successful sale of ONE FORMAT.

Then again, it seems like everyone calls themselves a bestseller these days without actually officially achieving it, so you probably don’t have to concern yourself with that as much as I did … but that is a post for another day.

The ISBN numbers are important because this is how the publisher, bookstore, or library will figure out which book is which. If you’re not going to sell your book anywhere but on your own website you will not need this. But, it is free if you have a Canadian address, so why not get one so you have more opportunities to distribute and sell your book?

Who Can Get a FREE ISBN Number?

It’s available to Canadian publishers which means you have a business address in Canada, if you have employees you need to have most of them actually be in Canada (75%) and you will be making your publication available in Canada.

If you qualify, the process is pretty straightforward. You can apply to obtain an ISBN through the ISBN Canada online system, or call 1-866-578-7777 to get information or the forms sent to you the old fashioned way (good old Canada Post).

It will take a couple of weeks once you submit your application online. Once you have your number, the online system for managing your number is pretty easy to use, and support questions are answered fairly quickly.

Here’s exactly how to get one as a Canadian:

IMPORTANT:

Now … before you get too excited, it’s important to note that you’re just going to receive the number. You still need to create the bar code. My book cover designer made mine for me based on the numbers. If you print through Create Space they will do it for you. Or, there are free services that will turn your ISBN number into a bar code and send it to you.

Once you have that – you’re good to go! You can sell in any country. My book has been sold in five different countries with it’s ISBN number so you’re good to go internationally once you get your ISBN number.

Here’s a video I shot a couple of years ago about ISBN Numbers that may help you as well:

Looking for tips to sell your book? Want to be the first to receive special offers, new video tips and exclusive subscriber only webinar training invites? Make sure you’re receiving the Broad Thoughts Newsletter … each week

 

It's time for a Brand New Evolution!

DOWNLOAD THE BUILD
YOUR BRAND TOOLKIT TODAY

connect-with-julie rss fb twitter
make-your-next-meeting-a-success

What Others Say About Julie Broad:

“I can honestly say she has been one of the best speakers we have had at our events.”

Chris Davis, Conference Director & Producer, KMI Publishing & Events

"Julie has an uncanny ability to take a story, sentence or pitch and turn it into a brilliant masterpiece that is intensely appealing and influential, and then give guidance on how to use it effectively. Julie's knowledge and expertise span many areas but one her greatest talents is in her ability to influence, and to teach others to be influential, an ingredient ESSENTIAL for success!"

~ Rick Wiebe , Linden, AB, Happy Past Coaching Client

"The greatest improvement I've noticed in working with Julie is the change in approach to 'selling myself'. I am not a salesman, I hate sitting across from people thinking I need to sell them something. Now, I feel more confident that I am the prize. I realize the fit is more important and the push back actually pulls people in."

~ Mike Bugg, Saskatoon, Sask, Happy Coaching Client

"Hiring Julie as a coach was the smartest step I ever took. She is a virtual encyclopedia of knowledge and her advice has always been incredibly practical."

~ Gillian Irving, Toronto, ON, Happy Coaching Client

"Julie showed me how to gain clarity on my unique strengths and present them so that their value was unmistakeable. I have no problems landing contracts, getting partners on my projects, I even used it to get the case dropped on a recent traffic ticket."

~Janali Davis, Toronto, ON, Happy Coaching Client

"Julie Broad's intense credibility and her willingness to assist others who are also "the real deal" is what sets her apart from the other "elite" coaches and instructors. When Julie Broad is speaking on a subject you better take notice - she's done the research and hardest work so you can do it the easier way."

Jeff Trapp, Regina Real Estate Club Founder & Happy Coaching Client

“We've had Julie out to speak a few of our exclusive member events and she was a hit every time. We continue to hear great feedback on her talks. She is engaging and authentic AND she shares concrete steps to help her audience get from where they are to where they really want to be.”

Nick & Tom Karadza, Founders Rock Star Real Estate Brokerage, Oakville, ON
make-a-demo