Do you need to buy an ISBN when writing a book?

Yes, you generally need to buy an ISBN (International Standard Book Number) if you want to publish and sell your book through major retailers, bookstores, and libraries. An ISBN provides a unique identifier for your book, making it easier to manage in inventory systems and searchable in databases. Here are a few key points about ISBNs:

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1. Mandatory for Retail and Libraries: Most online retailers (like Amazon) and physical bookstores require an ISBN for your book to be listed and sold. Libraries also use ISBNs for cataloging and stocking books.
2. Different Editions and Formats: Each edition and format (e.g., hardcover, paperback, eBook) of your book needs a separate ISBN.
3. Credibility and Professionalism: Having an ISBN adds credibility and a professional touch to your book, signaling that it meets industry standards.
4. Self-Publishing Platforms: Some self-publishing platforms, like Amazon’s Kindle Direct Publishing (KDP), offer free ISBNs, but they might come with restrictions, such as being platform-specific.
5. Purchasing an ISBN: You can buy ISBNs from the cheapest available source at here

In summary, while not absolutely mandatory for simply writing a book, obtaining an ISBN is crucial if you plan to sell your book through mainstream channels and want it to be easily discoverable and professionally cataloged.