The paperwork that
protects your book.
ISBNs, barcodes, Library of Congress numbers and copyright registration are easy to get wrong and hard to fix later. We explain your options in plain English and prepare everything in your name.
Whoever owns the ISBN is the publisher of record.
Free ISBNs from a platform are convenient, but they usually list that platform as the publisher and can only be used there. If you later move to another distributor, you may need a new ISBN and lose your listing history.
Buying your own ISBNs lets you, or your own imprint, appear as publisher everywhere your book is sold. We help you decide whether that is worth it for your goals.
Copyright exists from the moment you write, but registration in the US gives you important legal advantages if someone copies your work. We prepare the application with you.
Start With a Free Consultation →What we handle
- ISBN advice and assignment for each format
- Retail barcodes for print covers
- Library of Congress control number (LCCN)
- US copyright registration preparation
- Copyright page wording
Registered correctly, the first time
Clear advice and careful paperwork for every format of your book.
ISBN Assignment
One ISBN per format, paperback, hardcover, eBook and audiobook where needed, with metadata entered correctly.
Cover Barcode
A scannable retail barcode, with price coding if needed, placed correctly on the back cover.
LCCN & Cataloging
Library of Congress control number applied for before publication, helping libraries catalog your book.
Copyright Registration
Your US copyright application prepared with you for submission to the Copyright Office.
Copyright Page
Professional copyright page wording including rights, edition and any required notices.
Imprint Setup
Guidance on creating your own imprint name so you appear as an independent publisher.
Free ISBN or your own?
Platforms such as Amazon KDP offer a free ISBN. That works if you only plan to sell through that platform and do not mind it being listed as publisher. If you want to publish wide, through bookstores and libraries, or under your own imprint, owning your ISBNs is usually the better choice. In the US, ISBNs are issued by Bowker.
Each format needs its own ISBN
- Paperback and hardcover each need a separate ISBN
- eBooks may use one, depending on the retailer
- A new edition with substantial changes needs a new ISBN
- Simple corrections of typos usually do not
This page is general information, not legal advice. For specific legal questions about rights or disputes, consult a qualified attorney. ISBN and copyright setup is included in our Author Elite publishing package.
From first call to finished book
Free Consultation
We review your manuscript and goals, explain how registration fits into your wider plan and recommend the right package. No pressure and no card required.
- Honest package recommendation
- Clear pricing up front
- Answers about rights and royalties
Manuscript Preparation
Editing, cover design and formatting are completed to each platform's specifications, so files pass review the first time.
- Editing to the level you need
- Cover sized for every format
- Interior built to spec
Accounts & Metadata
We set up or connect your publishing accounts in your name, then write the description, keywords, categories and pricing that help readers find the book.
- Accounts owned by you
- Description, keywords and categories
- Pricing and territory strategy
Proof Approval
You approve digital previews and, for print, a physical proof before anything is released for sale.
- Digital and print proofs
- Corrections before release
- Your sign-off required
Go Live & Launch
Your book goes live and we confirm every listing, link the formats together and hand over a launch checklist, with marketing support available if you want it.
- Listings verified and linked
- Author profile set up
- Optional marketing support
Protect your book properly
Tell us which formats you plan to publish and where. We will explain your ISBN and copyright options and give you a clear quote.
ISBN & Copyright questions, answered
Straight answers to what authors ask us most.
For print books sold through retailers, yes. Some eBook platforms do not require one. We explain exactly what you need for each format and platform.
It is fine if you only sell on Amazon and do not mind Amazon being listed as publisher. If you want to publish wide or under your own imprint, buying your own ISBNs is usually better.
In the US your work is protected by copyright as soon as it is fixed in a tangible form. Registration adds legal benefits, including the ability to sue for infringement and, in many cases, claim statutory damages.
A Library of Congress Control Number helps libraries catalog your book. It must be requested before the book is published.
Yes. ISBNs, copyright and any imprint are registered to you, never to us.
No. We handle the practical paperwork and explain common options. For legal advice about rights, contracts or disputes, please consult an attorney.
Book your free consultation
Tell us where your book is today. A publishing specialist will review it and send clear, honest next steps, usually within one business day.
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