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FAQs: ISBN (International Standard Book Number)

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The International ISBN Agency

What is the history of the ISBN?
In 1965, W. H. Smith (the largest single book retailer in Great Britain) announced its plans to move to a computerized warehouse in 1967 and wanted a standard numbering system for books it carried. They hired consultants to work on behalf of their interest, the British Publishers Association's Distribution and Methods Committee and other experts in the U.K. book trade. They devised the Standard Book Numbering (SBN) system in 1966 and it was implemented in 1967.

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What is the International ISBN Agency?
The International ISBN Agency is tasked with administering and coordinating the assignment and usage of ISBNs worldwide. They are assisted by an advisory panel consisting of representatives from the International Organization for Standardization (ISO), the International Publishers Association (IPA), the International Federation of Library Associations (IFLA), and individual ISBN group agencies.

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Where can I find more information?
For more information, visit the International ISBN Agency website at isbn-international.org.

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