What is a barcode for books?
Barcodes for books are typically based on the ISBN (International Standard Book Number), a unique identifier assigned to each edition and format of a book. The ISBN is then converted into a barcode, usually in the EAN-13 format, which retailers and libraries scan at the point of sale or during inventory checks.
GS1 UK and book barcodes: The connection
GS1 UK is the authorised body that licenses GS1 identifiers, including the well-known Global Trade Item Number (GTIN), to businesses across various industries. The GTIN forms the foundation of most retail barcodes. However, book barcodes are a special case due to the globally standardised ISBN system.
In the UK, ISBNs are administered by the UK ISBN Agency, which is part of Nielsen BookServices. When a publisher wishes to obtain an ISBN for a new title, they apply through the UK ISBN Agency rather than GS1 UK. Once an ISBN is assigned, it serves as the unique product identifier for that book.
How are barcodes for books created?
After obtaining an ISBN from the UK ISBN Agency, the next step is to generate a barcode that incorporates this number. The ISBN is converted into an EAN-13 barcode, which is the standard used by retailers. This barcode is usually displayed on the back cover of the book.
There are several ways for publishers to obtain the barcode image:
- Many publishers use barcode generation software, some of which are available online for free or for purchase.
- Some book printers and publishing services include barcode creation as part of their package.
- Specialist barcode suppliers can also provide high-quality barcode images based on your ISBN.
Does GS1 UK issue barcodes for books?
GS1 UK does not directly issue ISBNs or the EAN-13 barcodes derived from them. Instead, their role is to manage the wider ecosystem of GS1 identifiers across products outside of the book publishing sector. For books, the responsibility for ISBN allocation and related barcodes lies with the UK ISBN Agency (Nielsen Book).
Publishers and authors should apply to the UK ISBN Agency to obtain ISBNs. Once assigned, they can use a range of services or tools to create the accompanying EAN-13 barcode for their books. GS1 UK’s system underpins the structure of these barcodes, ensuring they are compatible and globally recognised, but the practical assignment and management of book identifiers is handled by the ISBN Agency.