CreateSpace Now Offers ISBN Service Options

Up until recently an author who wished to use CreateSpace for self-publishing had one of two options for obtaining an ISBN. A CreateSpace assigned ISBN could be had for free. The string attached was CreateSpace would be both the Imprint and the Distributor if this option was selected. 

The second option was for the author to provide an ISBN purchased from Bowker. This option allowed the author to name the imprint and select the distributor.

CreateSpace now has two additional options. The author may purchase a custom ISBN for $10 and name the imprint but must use CreateSpace as the distributor.

The author may also purchase a "custom universal ISBN" for $99. This option allows the author to both name the imprint and the distributor.

Depending on the ISBN option selected there may be limits to the options available for the Expanded Distribution Service.

The following is from the CreateSpace website:

CreateSpace-Assigned ISBN

• CreateSpace is your book's imprint of record. If you select Amazon.com as a distribution channel, then this will be included on your book's Amazon.com detail page.
• You can sell your book through Amazon.com, an eStore, and all Expanded Distribution Channel sales outlets.
• You cannot use the ISBN with another publisher.
• Your book's ISBN information will be registered with BooksInPrint.com®

Custom ISBN* - $10

• You choose your book's imprint of record. If you select Amazon.com as a distribution channel, then this will be included on your book's Amazon.com detail page.
• You can sell your book through Amazon.com, an eStore, and some† Expanded Distribution Channel sales outlets.
• You cannot use the ISBN with another publisher.
• Your book's ISBN information will be registered with BooksInPrint.com®

Custom Universal ISBN* - $99

• You can use this ISBN with any publisher.
• You choose your book's imprint of record. If you select Amazon.com as a distribution channel, then this will be included on your book's Amazon.com detail page.
• You can sell your book through Amazon.com, an eStore, and some† Expanded Distribution Channel sales outlets.
• Your book's ISBN information will be registered with BooksInPrint.com®

Provide Your Own ISBN

• You can purchase your own ISBN from Bowker or through your local ISBN agency.
• If you are reprinting your book, the title, author name, and binding type must remain the same. A new edition requires a new ISBN.
• Your book's imprint must match what's on file with your ISBN.
• You can sell your book through Amazon.com, an eStore, and some† Expanded Distribution Channel sales outlets.