If you are considering self publishing a book then make sure you are detail oriented. Self publishing companies offer self publishing packages that guide you through the process, but having a thorough knowledge of self publishing is a must. When you are self publishing your book it is necessary to obtain an ISBN number for your book. An ISBN number is part of the self publishing lingo that you should understand.

What is an ISBN number? An ISBN number is the official number assigned to your book that identifies your book to a global audience. In other words, your book has an ISBN number that only applies to your book. Flip over any book and you will find an ISBN number on the back cover of the book. The ISBN number allows publishers to track books and book stores to order books.

As a self publisher you may sell most of your books through online retailers such as Amazon.com. These online retailers will require your book to have an ISBN number. Your ISBN number will enable the online retailer to keep track of the sales of your book so they can remit payment to you and/or your self publishing company.

How much does an ISBN number cost? Unfortunately, ISBN numbers are not free. You can purchase an ISBN number through the R.R. Bowker company for approximately $225. Check to see if your self publishing company offers an ISBN number in their self publishing packages. Your self publishing company may do all the leg work for you and set up the ISBN number for your book. In this case, the self publishing company you work with may assign you an ISBN number. Check to see if this means that the self publisher owns your ISBN number rights or if you retain all rights. You can find this information in your contract.

You can always purchase the ISBN number yourself. If you do have to purchase your ISBN number note that ISBN numbers are purchased in batches of ten. So you will have ISBN numbers for any future books you write. Another detail to take into account is that a paper back version of your book will require a different ISBN number than a hard cover version of your book. Keep this in mind when you self publish various formats of your book.

As you can see self publishing hinges on several details. Self publishing companies can help guide you through this process and cover all the bases.