Do You Need a Different ISBN for Print, eBook, and Audiobook?

If you’re preparing to publish your book in multiple formats, print, eBook, and audiobook, you’ve probably encountered a common question: Do I need a different ISBN for each version? The short answer is yes, but understanding why and how is crucial for authors, publishers, and anyone distributing books across channels. Let’s explore the reasons behind this, the nuances for each format, and how to manage ISBNs effectively in a multi-format publishing strategy.

Why Different ISBNs Are Required for Different Formats

1. Each Format is Treated as a Separate Product

Just like a paperback and a hardcover edition are treated as separate products with different price points, dimensions, and sometimes content (like a foreword or appendix), eBooks and audiobooks also differ in structure, file type, and use-case.

• Print Editions: A hardcover and a paperback of the same title have different physical properties and are often priced differently. Each gets a unique ISBN.
• eBooks: Whether it’s in ePub, Mobi, or PDF, an eBook should have a separate ISBN from the print edition. In fact, some standards bodies recommend separate ISBNs for different eBook file types (though platforms like Amazon do not require that).
• Audiobooks: Audio formats (MP3, CD, digital streaming) are vastly different in how they’re consumed, and thus require their own ISBNs.

2. Retailers and Distributors Rely on ISBNs to Track Sales and Inventory

Distributors like Ingram, Baker & Taylor, and wholesalers rely on ISBNs to manage orders, supply chain logistics, and inventory. If all formats shared a single ISBN, confusion in cataloging and fulfillment could arise, leading to customer service issues or revenue loss.

3. Libraries and Metadata Systems Require Precise Identifiers

Libraries using systems like WorldCat or MARC records (Machine-Readable Cataloging) need distinct ISBNs to ensure they can catalog different formats correctly. Without format-specific ISBNs, discovery tools can’t differentiate between an audiobook and a hardcover.

ISBN Guidelines by Format

Let’s break it down:

ISBN and Major Retailers: What They Require

• Amazon KDP: Does not require ISBNs for eBooks, it uses its own ASIN. However, if you want to sell your eBook elsewhere or retain control of metadata, assign an ISBN anyway.
• Apple Books, Kobo, Barnes & Noble Press: Require or recommend an ISBN for eBooks.
• Audible/ACX: Does not require ISBNs for audiobooks, but if you plan to distribute beyond ACX, having an ISBN helps.
• IngramSpark: Requires unique ISBNs for every format.

How to Manage Multiple ISBNs Effectively

Managing multiple ISBNs across formats might feel overwhelming at first, but here are a few tips to simplify the process:

Keep a Master Metadata Sheet:

Track all ISBNs in a spreadsheet with columns for:

• Title
• Format
  
• ISBN
  
• Price
  
• Distributor(s)
  
• Publication date
  

Get a Block of ISBNs Early

If you’re planning multiple formats, purchase a block of ISBNs instead of individual ones. This ensures consistency and can save costs long term.

Apply Correct Metadata

When assigning an ISBN, ensure that the accompanying metadata matches the format. Wrong or duplicated metadata may lead to misfiled records or incorrect listings.

Think Ahead

Plan your publishing formats early in your production cycle so you can assign ISBNs before release and submit to catalogs like ISBN Services, Nielsen, or Books In Print.

Conclusion

Publishing in multiple formats is a smart way to reach different readers, but it comes with logistical responsibilities, one of which is proper ISBN management. Assigning unique ISBNs for print, eBook, and audiobook formats is not only a best practice but a foundational requirement for professional distribution. It ensures your book is correctly identified, cataloged, and available wherever readers shop, borrow, or listen.

Whether you’re an indie author managing your catalog or a small press planning a product launch, understanding ISBN rules will help you build a solid infrastructure for long-term success in publishing.

FAQ’s

Q: Can I use the same ISBN for paperback and hardcover?

A: No. Each physical format is considered a separate product and must have its own ISBN.

Q: What if my audiobook is only distributed through Audible? Do I still need an ISBN?

A: Audible via ACX doesn’t require ISBNs, but if you plan to distribute the audiobook elsewhere (libraries, retail channels), you should assign one.

Q: Do different eBook file types (e.g., ePub and Mobi) need separate ISBNs?

A: Technically, yes, each version is a separate product. However, some retailers don’t require this, and you may choose to assign one ISBN for all digital formats if distribution channels allow.

Q: What is an ASIN? Can it replace an ISBN?

A: An ASIN (Amazon Standard Identification Number) is unique to Amazon and only works on their platform. It cannot replace an ISBN for wider distribution.

Q: Can I publish a book without any ISBN at all?

A: You can, particularly for eBooks or audiobooks on platforms that don’t require one (like Amazon or Audible), but not having an ISBN limits your reach, discoverability, and professionalism.