ISBNs and ISSNs for University Publications

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Library About Policies & Guidelines ISBNs and ISSNs for University Publications

ISBNs and ISSNs for University Publications

The University Library provides ISBNs (International Standard Book Number) for JCU publications made available to the public. ISSNs (International Standard Serial Number) are provided by the National Library of Australia.

What is an ISBN or ISSN?

An ISBN is a 13 digit number used by publishers, booksellers and libraries for ordering, listing and stock control purposes.  The following can be assigned an ISBN:

  • Printed books and pamphlets
  • Online publications
  • Multi-media kits containing print materials
  • Educational videos and software

An ISSN is an 8 digit number assigned to a serial publication which is intended to continue indefinitely. The following can be assigned an ISSN:

  • Newspapers, journals and magazines
  • Newsletters
  • Annual reports
  • Monographs in series may be eligible

Request an ISBN or ISSN

To request an ISBN send an email to isbn@jcu.edu.au and provide:

  • Title
  • Author(s) or editors
  • Publishing body (College, School, Centre)

The ISBN will be emailed to the requestor.

JCU Library does not provide ISSNs for serials.  If you require an ISSN contact the Australian ISSN Agency at https://www.nla.gov.au/the-australian-issn-agency

Legal Deposit Requirements for Published Material

Under the relevant Federal (Copyright Act 1968) and State laws publishers in Queensland are required to deposit copies of any publication with the appointed legal deposit Libraries. JCU Library will arrange legal deposit. It is required that 6 print copies of JCU publications assigned an ISBN be deposited with the Library. These will be distributed to:

  • National Library of Australia
  • State Library of Queensland
  • Queensland Parliamentary Library
  • JCU archives
  • JCU Library (2 copies)

Contact Details

Email: isbn@jcu.edu.au

Phone: 07 4781 4162