13-Digit ISBN Information
Are you ready for the 13-digit ISBNs?
The 978-prefixed ISBNs (or EANs) have been in usage for several years now. In addition to the 978-prefixed ISBNs, newer 979-prefixed ISBNs are now in usage, and these 13-digit ISBN numbers are the first that do not also have a 10-digit version. This means that your circulation system must use the 13-digit numbers instead of having the choice between those and the 10-digit. It is highly important that you and your library are prepared for these 13-digit identifiers.
Here are some important measures to take to ensure compatibility with the new 13 digit ISBNs.
- Make sure your library cataloging/circulation system can read and handle the 13 digit numbers. To do so either contact your technical department or cataloging/circulation system vendor.
- You should also update your systems, so they can store and search for titles using strictly the ISBN-13.
Basic ISBN Information:
The ISBN (International Standard Book Number) provides a standard way to identify books in global trade. On January 1, 2007 the book industry began its transition to 13-digit ISBNs, phasing out the use of 10-digit numbers.
The vast majority of 13-digit ISBNs are not going to have the same last ten digits in the number. A 13-digit ISBN will usually have a different ending number (the check digit) than its 10-digit counterpart. When searching or using 13-digit ISBNs, it is important to leave the newer 978 or 979 prefixes on the number to ensure you locate the correct title you are looking for.
Why did the ISBN numbers change?
The 13-digit ISBN numbers were developed to aide in the increasing shortage of available 10-digit ISBNs. It was also designed to help align the numbering system for books with the global EAN.UCC identification system.