ISBN

Get a free ISBN for every format

The ISBN is your book's unique ID in the book trade. We provide one free, or you can bring your own.
Free ISBN availableUse your own ISBNPaperback, hardcover and eBook
What is an ISBN

The ID stores and libraries use to find your book

An ISBN (International Standard Book Number) is a 13-digit number that identifies one specific edition and format of a book.

Unique per format

Paperback, hardcover and eBook are different products, so each format has its own ISBN.

Used across the trade

Bookstores, libraries and distributors use it to list, order and track your book.

Tied to your metadata

The ISBN is linked to your title, author and description. See book metadata.

Your options

Free ISBN or your own

Choose what fits when you add your book details.

Free ISBN (recommended)

We provide an ISBN at no cost when you add your book details. No setup and no extra fee.

Use my own ISBN

Already bought an ISBN for this book? Enter it and we will use it for your publishing plan.

How it works

Add an ISBN in three steps

It takes place inside the normal book details step.

  1. Add book details

    Enter your title, author name and format.

  2. Pick ISBN

    Select a free ISBN or type in your own.

  3. We assign it

    The ISBN is attached to that format of your book.

  4. Publish

    It is submitted with your book to your chosen platforms.

Good to know

Things worth knowing before you publish

A few points that save trouble later.

One ISBN, one edition

If you make major changes, such as a new edition, it generally needs a new ISBN.

Match your files

The title and author on your cover and in your details should match the ISBN record.

Works with every plan

ISBNs are available on all publishing plans.

Platforms

Where your book can be sold

With 3 or 10 platforms you choose from these 12. Global Online reaches 10,000+ platforms, including all of these.

Amazon KDPApple BooksKoboGoogle Play BooksBarnes & Noble PressIngramSparkDraft2DigitalSmashwordsBookshop.orgScribdTolinoVivlio+ 10,000+ more with Global Online
Keep exploring

Everything about publishing with Folio

Each guide links to the others, so you can follow the path that fits your book.

FAQ

ISBN questions

Do I need an ISBN?

Most stores and distributors need one to sell a book. Some platforms can assign their own, but a Folio ISBN keeps your details consistent everywhere.

Is the ISBN really free?

Yes. A free ISBN is available when you add your book details. The publishing plan is a separate one-time fee per book.

Can I use my own ISBN?

Yes. Choose "Use my own ISBN" and enter it in your book details.

Do eBook and paperback need different ISBNs?

Yes. Each format is a separate product and should have its own ISBN.

Ready to publish your book?

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