ISBNs

At first, you might consider skipping the ISBN (International Standard Book Number) to save on costs. An ISBN costs £89 and isn't necessary for direct sales from your website or distributing to crowdfunding backers.

However, if you plan to sell your book in bookshops, on Amazon, or through other online retailers, libraries, or comic book stores, an ISBN is essential. Each version of your publication, be it hardcover, softcover, or an updated edition, requires its own unique number.

It’s important to remember that only the original purchaser owns the ISBN, which means a resold ISBN won't be registered under your name.

Ultimately, the decision depends on your distribution goals. But if you're considering broader distribution through online stores or physical retailers, investing in an ISBN is certainly worthwhile.

Please note, YouLovePrint does not sell ISBNs and cannot add them to your artwork.

Barcodes

Once you've obtained an ISBN, you'll need to create a barcode. There are several online services where you can generate a barcode for free.

Feel free to position the barcode anywhere on your book, but make sure to include it in your print files when you submit them.

Ensure that the barcode image is set at a resolution of 300dpi (dots per inch), which is the standard quality for high-resolution printing. This setting ensures that our printers output 300 fine dots for every inch of your image, allowing your barcode to be scanned easily.