Barcodes and ISBN

Bar Codes

Publishers use a bar code identifier called a Bookland EAN scanning symbol. The EAN stands for European Article Number. This bar code is a ‘graphic’ that allows a book to be scanned for purchase and holds encoded information such as the ISBN, price, author, title, publisher and edition. The bar code must be visible on the lower half  of ‘cover 4’ – the back cover of the book.

If you are going to be marketing your book to distributors, wholesalers, and retail book stores, keep in mind they will not accept your book without the bar code. However, if you are keeping the book within your family and skipping the commercial market, there is no requirement to obtain a bar code.

Trust Publishing can help you acquire a bar code. To utilize this service at Trust Publishing, check the box marked ‘Bar Code Needed’ on the information form and it will be added to your purchase package.

What is an ISBN?

The International Standard Book Number (ISBN) is a 13-digit number that appears on the inside copyright page of the book as well as on the back cover. Its use includes inventory control, sales tracking, and order fulfillment by booksellers, wholesalers, distributors, libraries and universities.

The ISBN is a mandatory sales tool. Anyone who sells or distributes books such as distributors, bookstores and wholesalers will not carry books without an ISBN. It is imperative that every book have one. However, if you are keeping the book within your family and skipping the commercial market, the ISBN is not necessary.

Trust Publishing can help you acquire an ISBN. To utilize this service at Trust Publishing, check the box marked, ‘ISBN Needed’ on the information form and it will be added to your purchase package.