Many self-published authors in South Africa are unaware of the legalities and protocols surrounding the use of an ISBN number and Legal Deposits to the National Library. If your book is being published by a publishing company this process will most likely be handled by them. A good co-publishing company will also guide you regarding ISBNs and Legal Deposits.

What is an ISBN?

An ISBN (International Standard Book Number) is a unique identification code assigned to each book, eBook, or audiobook published. The ISBN identifies each title and edition of that title, allowing for more efficient marketing of products by booksellers, libraries, universities, wholesalers, and distributors.

Each form of a particular book (e.g. paperback, hardcover, eBook, audiobook) will have its very own ISBN, as well as each new edition of that particular book. This enables bookstores and customers to order the correct edition of a book in the correct format.

An ISSN (International Standard Serial Number) is the equivalent of the ISBN in the journal and magazine publishing business.

When is it not necessary to have an ISBN?

An ISBN is generally not required when self-publishing PDFs, eBooks or selling books directly to consumers without using traditional retail channels. Note, however, that is your hardcopy of your book has an ISBN, your eBook will need to have its own unique ISBN too.

• If you are only selling your book through your own website or directly to customers, an ISBN is not essential.
• Some online retailers (such as Amazon) may assign their own unique identifiers for eBooks, making an ISBN unnecessary.
• If you are selling your books directly to customers, such as through your own website or at events, you may not need an ISBN.
• If your book will only be sold to a small, niche audience and you are not seeking wider distribution through bookstores or libraries, an ISBN may not be necessary.
• Low-content books like notebooks, journals, or colouring books may not require an ISBN. 

When is an ISBN essential?

• Traditional Retail: If you plan to sell your book through bookstores, libraries, or wholesalers, an ISBN is crucial for tracking and distribution.
• Wide Distribution: If you aim for wider visibility and sales potential, including being listed on bestseller lists. 
• Different Formats: Each version of your book (paperback, hardcover, eBook, video, audio) needs its own unique ISBN.

How does one apply for an ISBN?

You must contact the National Library of South Africa to apply for an ISBN for your publication. https://www.nlsa.ac.za/isbn/

What is a Legal Deposit?

Legal Deposit is a legal obligation that South African publishers (or producers) of all types of documents, including audio-visual publications, have to deposit a certain number of copies of each of their published documents at designated places of legal deposit. The Legal Deposits and ISBN numbers are regulated and handled by the South African National Library. There are five national libraries. The Legal Deposit Act 54 of 1997 governs this process, mandating the deposit of various formats, including print, audio-visual, and electronic publications. You can follow the link to read more about Legal Deposits: https://www.nlsa.ac.za/legal-deposit/

The purpose of Legal Deposit is to collect, preserve, and make available to present and future users the documents that contain the country’s intellectual and cultural heritage.