In a recent post we discussed why you shouldn’t use a free ISBN. Remember, ISBNs are not only the global standard for identifying titles, but they are unique identifiers for your book, which declare the work belongs to you the author (read more below).
Why you shouldn't use a free ISBN.
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Mar 12
This month we’re celebrating all things books and publishing for March is Reading Month! One of the most important parts of publishing is ensuring you protect your work and that starts with your ISBN (International Standard Book Number).
Similarly, when you copyright your work it officially declares your ownership of your manuscript and prevents others from using your ideas and intellectual property.
The United States Copyright Office defines it as:
“Copyright is a form of protection grounded in the U.S. Constitution and granted by law for original works of authorship fixed in a tangible medium of expression. Copyright covers both published and unpublished works.”
While copyrighting your work is not mandatory in order to publish, it is highly recommended. After all, you worked so hard on your manuscript and it would be devastating for someone to try to claim your work as their own.
Please note the information in this post should not be considered legal advice. If you have additional questions, please consult legal counsel.
It’s recommended to submit your work for copyright once your manuscript has gone through editing and is in its final version. Alternatively, you could copyright it prior to editing. However, you cannot simply upload a new version of your work under the same copyright. It would require a new copyright application and an additional fee. But the choice is yours!
Pro Tip: Protect your work from AI as you are writing and editing by changing this email setting now!
There is a $65 fee for each copyright in the United States. Registration info can be found here. Before you register check out the copyright FAQs.
In addition to protecting your manuscript, don’t forget about copyrighting your cover art. Cover design copyrights can be handled in a number of different ways—the designer may hold the copyright, the publishing company may hold the copyright, or they may transfer the copyright to you as the author. Make sure to discuss rights and copyright with your designer or publisher.
Stay twisted!
Author, Marketer, Gif Aficionado
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