US & Canada ISBN Registration

Your Book, Properly Registered

Every published book needs an ISBN — the 13-digit code that identifies it to retailers, libraries, and distributors. Nova Publisher handles ISBN registration correctly from the start, whichever country you're publishing from.

ISBN Registration by Country

ISBN rules differ between the United States and Canada — we handle both correctly.

🇺🇸 United States

In the United States, ISBNs are issued exclusively by Bowker. We register your ISBN under your own publishing name — not a third-party platform — and assign a separate ISBN for each format (eBook, paperback, hardcover), since each requires its own unique code.

🇨🇦 Canada

Canadian authors are entitled to free ISBNs through Library and Archives Canada (LAC). We manage the LAC publisher registration and ISBN assignment on your behalf, so you keep full ownership of your publishing imprint at no extra cost.

What's Included

  • ISBN registration for eBook, paperback, and hardcover editions
  • Publisher name set to you, not a third-party platform
  • Barcode generation for print cover files
  • Bibliographic data submitted correctly to Bowker or Library and Archives Canada
  • Guidance on when a new ISBN is required (e.g. revised editions)
  • Support for both US and Canadian marketplace listings

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a different ISBN for my eBook and paperback?
Yes — each format is a distinct edition and requires its own ISBN, even though it's the same book.
Can I register as the publisher, not Nova Publisher?
Yes — we register your ISBN under your own name or imprint, so you retain full ownership and control of your publishing rights.
Is ISBN registration included in your packages?
ISBN registration is included in our Standard and Premium publishing packages. See our pricing page for details, or contact us to add it to any package.

Ready to Register Your ISBN?

Talk to our team about ISBN registration for your book in the USA or Canada — included in our Standard and Premium packages.