A number for one publication
An SPSN is a unique number for a published work, such as a book, e-book, article, report or guide. You can place the number inside the publication, on its website and wherever you share its details.
Each SPSN belongs to one version and format of a publication. For example, a paperback and an EPUB normally need separate numbers.
A public page anyone can check
Every approved SPSN has a permanent public page. It shows which publication the number belongs to, including its title, format, language, publisher, contributors, publication date and current status.
Readers, libraries, booksellers and other organisations can look up the number and see the same publication details.
Who can apply
Individuals, self-publishers, independent publishers, small presses and organisations can apply. You do not need to be a large or established publisher.
What an SPSN does not do
We review each paid application before issuing a number. This checks that the publication and its details can be registered. It does not prove copyright, confirm every claim, judge quality or guarantee that another company will accept the SPSN.
Some retailers, libraries and publishing systems require an ISBN, DOI, ISSN or another identifier. You can still use an SPSN alongside those numbers.