The International Standard Music Number (ISMN) is a unique identifier for music publications, similar to how the ISBN works for books. It is used globally to catalog and identify music publications, including sheet music, scores, and related materials. In Uganda, the National Library of Uganda (NLU) is responsible for issuing ISMN numbers. Below is a step-by-step guide to help you apply for an ISMN for your music publication.
In-Person Application Procedure
- Visit the National Library of Uganda
- To start the process, go to the National Library of Uganda, located at Plot 50, Buganda Road, Kampala.
- Obtain the ISMN Application Form
- Request the International Standard Music Number (ISMN) application form from the library’s office. Read the instructions carefully before proceeding.
- Fill the Application Form
- Complete the application form with all necessary details. You will be asked to provide information about your music publication, including the title, author (if applicable), and publisher.
- Prepare the Required Documents
- Make sure to have the following documents ready:
- Copy of the title page(s) of your publication
- Copy of the verso page(s)
- Certificate of registration for the publisher
- Completed ISMN application form
- Make sure to have the following documents ready:
- Submit the Application
- Submit your completed form and documents to the National Library of Uganda.
- Verification and Processing
- The library will verify your application and documents. If everything is in order, they will issue the ISMN for your music publication.
- Collection of ISMN
- You will be notified once your ISMN is ready for collection. It can take 14 days for processing.
Required Documents
- Completed application form for ISMN
- Copy of the title page(s) of the music publication
- Copy of the verso page(s)
- Certificate of registration of the publisher or entity
- Passport-size photograph of the applicant (if applicable)
Eligibility
The following are eligible to apply for an ISMN in Uganda:
- Ugandan music publishers
- Self-publishing musicians or composers who produce and distribute their music publications
An ISMN must be assigned to each edition of a music publication, including:
- Scores
- Miniature scores
- Vocal scores
- Sets of parts and individual parts
- Song books and lyric publications
Fees
- 1 ISMN: UGX 20,000
- 10 ISMN: UGX 100,000
- 100 ISMN: UGX 350,000
- 1,000 ISMN: UGX 1,000,000
Processing Time
- The maximum processing time for ISMN applications is 14 days.
Validity
- An ISMN is valid for the lifetime of the publication it is assigned to. It is a unique identifier for the specific edition and cannot be transferred to other works.
Office Locations & Contacts
- National Library of Uganda – Head Office
Physical Address: 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 ISMN is necessary for music publishers and self-publishing musicians to properly identify their publications in the international music market. It helps:
- Catalog and catalogue music efficiently
- Distribute music publications globally
- Track sales and royalties
The ISMN is also essential for library cataloging and order fulfillment by distributors and booksellers.
Other Uses of the Document
An ISMN serves as:
- Proof of publication for music publishers
- A unique identifier for music publications across libraries, distributors, and sales platforms worldwide
- A legal identifier for authorship and ownership in the music industry
By obtaining the ISMN, your music publication becomes part of an international registry, making it easier to manage and distribute your work globally.
