When it comes to self-publishing your book, there are several options available to authors. One popular choice is to use Amazon KDP's free ISBNs. While this may seem like a convenient and cost-effective choice, there are limitations that may make it more beneficial to purchase your own ISBN through ISBNdirect.
The Downsides of Using the Free KDP ISBN
One of the main downsides of using the free KDP ISBN is that it ties your book exclusively to the Amazon platform. While Amazon is undoubtedly a dominant force in the publishing industry, limiting your book's distribution solely to their platform can restrict its potential reach and sales opportunities.
By using the free KDP ISBN, you are essentially locking yourself into the Amazon system. This means that your book won't be available for distribution through other popular platforms such as Barnes & Noble, Apple Books, and Kobo. This lack of flexibility can be a significant drawback, especially if you are looking to expand your readership beyond Amazon's customer base.
Additionally, if you decide to switch to a different self-publishing platform in the future, you won't be able to transfer the ISBN associated with your book. This can be frustrating and time-consuming, forcing you to re-publish your book with a new ISBN and potentially losing any reviews or rankings you had accumulated on Amazon.
The Benefits of Purchasing an ISBN
On the other hand, purchasing your own ISBN through ISBNdirect provides a range of benefits that can greatly enhance your publishing experience. Firstly, having your ISBN allows you to publish your book across multiple platforms, giving you the opportunity to reach a wider audience and potentially increase sales.
By using ISBNdirect, you can get your book in Bookwire, a global book distribution platform that connects publishers with retailers, libraries, and other partners. This further expands your book's visibility and accessibility, making it more likely to be discovered by readers around the world.
Furthermore, owning your ISBN ensures that you retain control over your publishing journey. You are not bound to any specific platform and have the freedom to switch between different self-publishing services as you see fit. This flexibility allows you to adapt to changing market conditions and take advantage of new opportunities that arise.