The ISBN is a unique number assigned to an item by its publisher. Each ISBN is a 10- or 13-digit number. Older publications may only have a 10-digit ISBN while newer publications may have both or just the 13-digit number.
Indicators & Subfields #
| 1st Indicators | 2nd Indicators | Subfields |
|---|---|---|
| # = Undefined | # = Undefined | $a = International Standard Book Number (ISBN) $q = Qualifying information |
Entry #
Enter the ISBN as it appears on the item in hand (if present) excluding any spaces or dashes within the $a. If the ISBN in the record contains dashes or spaces, remove them.
| Source Data | MARC Data |
|---|---|
 | In this example, we see the ISBN is listed as 978-0-7595-55402. For the 020 field, however, we need enter the ISBN without the hyphens. =020 \\ $a 9780759555402 |
Following the $a, use a $q to describe the item as it appears on the item. Allow for varying forms of entry.
=020 \\$a9780759555402$q(pbk)
=020 \\$a9780593128503$q(paperback)Allowed Variations #
Consider your item a match to the record even if these variations occur:
If an ISBN is not in the MARC record, or one is in the MARC record but not on your item and everything else matches, consider it a match and add your holding. Add your item’s ISBN to the MARC if needed.
Rebound copies generally contain the same content as the original item except for a new ISBN. If the ISBN from the original publisher matches the ISBN in the record, attach your holding. The original ISBN can be found on the title page verso. If the ISBN for the new binding is not present on the record, add your item’s ISBN to the MARC. Include qualifying information in a $q.
=020 \\$a9780060518929$q(paperback)
=020 \\$a9781435287877$q(Paw Prints)Occasionally books, particularly paperbacks, are re-released with a new cover. If the artwork date is the only difference, you may attach your holding.