ISBN-13 Checklist on Its Way

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This week, the American Booksellers Association sent a letter and checklist regarding the January 1, 2007, change to a 13-digit ISBN to all of its main store members. The mailing was sent via FedEx for next day delivery.

Noting that the transition from a 10-digit to a 13-digit ISBN will affect everyone in the book industry, the letter from ABA CEO Avin Mark Domnitz stressed: "Any systems that are currently configured to handle only 10-digit ISBNs will need to be adapted or upgraded to accommodate the new 13-digit ISBN.

"If your bookstore has not already upgraded its computer systems, you must do so as soon as possible, or you may find that you are unable to do business after the transition to the new ISBN."

ABA took the unusual step of sending the mailing via FedEx to ensure that all of its bookstore members are informed about the ramifications of the change and the resources that are available from ABA and from the Book Industry Study Group's ISBN-13 Task Force to help them prepare.

The latest addition is ABA's "Getting Ready for ISBN-13 Checklist", which is included in the mailing.

ABA is encouraging booksellers with questions or concerns about the new ISBN to contact ABA's David Walker, at [email protected], or (800) 637-0037, ext. 6612. As January 1 draws nearer, the association will continue to provide members with updated information about the industry-wide transition via Bookselling This Week and other forms of communication.