Uploaded June 2026 | Updated September 2026, 2 weeks ago

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Everything you need to know about ISBNs — and a full walkthrough of how to get one, wherever you're based.

We cover what an ISBN actually is, who needs one (and when the free platform option is fine), and why starting with someone else's ISBN can cost you later. Then we walk through the process step by step for US publishers on Bowker, for the UK on Nielsen, and for Library and Archives Canada — where ISBNs are completely free.

LINKS AND RESOURCES
Buy ISBNs on Bowker (US): myidentifiers.com/identify-protect-your-book/isbn/buy-isbn
Buy ISBNs on Nielsen (UK): nielsenisbnstore.com
Register a free ISBN in Canada: canada.ca/en/library-archives/services/publishers/isbn.html
Free Barcode Generator: barcode.tec-it.com/en

⏱ CHAPTERS
00:00 Introduction
00:57 What Is an ISBN?
02:58 Do You Actually Need One?
04:52 How to Get an ISBN on Bowker (US)
07:07 How to Get an ISBN on Nielsen (UK)
08:31 How to Get an ISBN in Canada (Free)
10:28 Does Your Book Need to be Finished First?

🖊️ Working through the self-publishing process? Browse publishing professionals on the Reedsy marketplace: reedsy.com