How to obtain an ISBN/ ISSN number for your book in Nigeria The International Standard Book Number (ISBN) is a unique numeric commercial book identification based upon the 13-digit Standard Book Numbering code. It is an imternational requirement if you want to sell your book online or in bookstores, place it with distributors and wholesalers, or put it in libraries, then you’ll need to have an ISBN for each version of printed book (hard cover, paperback), eBook or audio book. It uniquely identifies your book as original and is printed at the back cover of your book. The National Library of Nigeria is charged the issuing of ISBN and ISSN (International Standard Serial Numbers, for serial publications e.g. magazines and newspapers) to publishers and to catalogue all publications in Nigeria for easy access to the public. It also can serve as a standard proof in court against the illegal use of your title and content. These unique set of numbers are divided into five parts depending on specific variations of country, publisher and title. I will use one of my books as example; ISBN example: 978-978-928-789-9 In this case . . . The first 3 digits = International code Next 3 digits = country identifier Next 3 digits = publisher identifier Next 3 digits = title identifier last digit = check digit (for automatic check for correctness by computers) To get your own ISBN/ISSN number, you only need to approach any of the National Library’s offices with the following requirements; 1. An ISBN or ISSN application letter to the Director of the National Library on your company’s letter-headed paper. For example Abuja Office: Plot 274 Central Business District, Sanusi Dantata House, Garki Abuja Lagos: Director, National Library of Nigeria ISSN/ISBN Agency 227 Hebert Macaulay Street Alagomeji Yaba Lagos 2. A Photocopy of certificate of incorporation of your company (as registered by the Corporate Affairs Commission of Nigeria – CAC) 3. The Printed manuscript or copy of the book you wish to get ISBN for 4. Four thousand (4,000) Naira registration fee If you choose to obtain the registration form and come back, you need to submit the completed application form within two weeks. This process is not tedious provided you have all you need before approaching the office. Depending on the number of people you meet on queue, internet connectivity and power, you can be done within an hour. However to officially file a notice of your copyright, that power is vested with the Nigerian Copyright Commission.
Posted on: Sun, 28 Jul 2013 18:10:03 +0000
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