The NBC is the official issuer of ISBNs (International Standard Book Number) in Malta. Through ISBNs, the NBC can build a database of all books published.  ISBNs were 10 digits in length up to the end of December 2006, but since 1 January 2007 they now always consist of 13 digits. ISBNs are calculated using a specific mathematical formula and include a check digit to validate the number. It is essentially a product identifier used by publishers, booksellers, libraries, internet retailers and other supply chain participants for ordering, listing, sales records and stock control purposes. The ISBN identifies the registrant as well as the specific title, edition and format.
It is always the publisher of the book who should apply for the ISBN. For the purposes of ISBN, the publisher is the group, organisation, company or individual who is responsible for initiating the production of a publication. Normally, it is also the person or body who bears the cost and financial risk in making a product available. It is not normally the printer, but it can be the author of the book if the author has chosen to publish their book themselves.

The current Council is making sure that all ISBNs are released in accordance with international standards and obligations. All ISBNs are currently being registered and each number follows a series.

1) ISBN prices are as follows:

a) One number: €20

b) Ten numbers: €100

c) Twenty numbers: €170

2) A barcode is given with every ISBN free of charge

3) An ISBN can only be issued once a client provides the National Book Council with the details of the publication that will be using the number. The details that must be provided are title, author, format, publisher and year of publication of the book. Clients can buy a number or set of numbers in advance without providing the details mentioned, however said numbers will only be issued once all necessary details are provided. This procedure will guarantee that numbers issued will follow a sequence.

Apply for an ISBN by filling in this application form:

ISBN application form One-offs

4) A bundle of hundred (100) ISBNs for books in ebook format costs €50. The price for one ISBN for a book in ebook format is €10. In the case of an already-pubished book, the ISBN price for its ebook version, remains free of charge.

Payment can be made by cheque payable to National Book Council (addressed to: National Book Council c/o Mr Joseph Debattista, Central Public Library, Profs. Joseph J. Mangion Street, Floriana FRN1800)

Download a copy of the ISBN Users’ Manual in Maltese by pressing this link: Manwal ghall-Utenti tal-ISBN (Malti)

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