An International Standard Book Number (ISBN) is a unique identifier assigned to books and similar publications, enabling efficient cataloguing, ordering, and distribution in the book trade. In Uganda, ISBNs are issued exclusively by the National Library of Uganda (NLU), under the authority of the National Library Act, 2003. Below is a step-by-step guide on how to apply for an ISBN.
In-Person Application Procedure
- Visit the National Library of Uganda Offices
- Go to the National Library of Uganda, located on Plot 50, Buganda Road, Kampala.
- At the reception, request an ISBN application form and read through the instructions carefully.
- Complete the Application Form
- Fill in all details accurately, including information about the publication, publisher profile, and author details.
- Pay the Application Fee
- The applicant must pay the prescribed fee of UGX 40,000 per title.
- Obtain bank payment details from the National Library office before making payment. Keep the bank slip as proof of payment.
- Attach Required Documents
- Gather and attach all the necessary documents (listed below) to your application form.
- Submit the Application
- Submit the completed form, bank slip, and supporting documents to the National Library of Uganda office.
- Verification and Issuance
- The NLU will review your documents and verify your publication details.
- Once approved, the applicant will be issued an International Standard Book Number (ISBN) within 1–2 working days.
- ISSN applications for serial publications take up to 10 working days.
Required Documents
- Certificate of business registration or administration
- Title and copyright pages of the new publication
- Cover page and editorial page
- Profile of the publisher
- Copy of the applicant’s ID
- Author’s full name and address
- Previous ISBN prefix (if applicable)
- Proof of payment (bank slip)
Eligibility
Eligible applicants include:
- Ugandan publishers, including self-published authors.
- Publishers producing monographs, maps, educational software, audiobooks, digital publications, or text-based mixed media.
Fees
- Application fee per title: UGX 40,000
- Payment should be made to the National Library of Uganda through designated bank accounts.
Processing Time
- ISBN: 1–2 working days (after meeting all requirements)
- ISSN: 10 working days
Validity
- An ISBN is permanent and valid for the lifetime of the specific publication or edition.
Office Locations & Contacts
National Library of Uganda – Head Office
Plot 50, Buganda Road, Kampala, Uganda
Postal Address: P.O. Box 4262, Kampala, Uganda
Tel: 0414-254661 / 233633
Email: [email protected]
Website: National Library of Uganda
Need for the Document
The ISBN serves as a global identifier for books and similar publications, facilitating:
- Accurate cataloguing by libraries
- Efficient ordering and inventory tracking by booksellers
- Enhanced distribution and discoverability in both local and international markets
It also contributes to the National Bibliography of Uganda, maintained by NLU.
Information Which Might Help
- The ISBN is a 10–13 digit number used internationally to identify publications.
- It ensures that each edition and format of a book is uniquely distinguishable.
- Having an ISBN improves market visibility and supports digital and physical book sales.
Other Uses of the ISBN
- Library cataloguing and bibliographic indexing
- Tracking sales and royalties in the publishing industry
- Electronic ordering and inventory management for booksellers
- Proof of publication for legal or business purposes
By following this procedure, Ugandan publishers and authors can secure an ISBN to professionalize their publications and ensure global recognition in the publishing ecosystem.
