More details about how to assign SNBVEs
- Assigning SNBVEs to different language editions
Each different language edition of a book will need its own SNBVE.
- Assigning SNBVEs to multi-format/multi-volume works
An SNBVE must be allocated to the whole set of volumes of a multi-volume work; also, if the individual volumes of the set are sold separately, each volume must have its own SNBVE. Even when each volume is not sold separately, the allocation of an SNBVE to each volume is advisable. It facilitates the handling of returns (damaged volumes) and eliminates the possibility of confusion over specific publications. Each volume should list all SNBVEs.
Similar rules apply to kits. If any of the parts are available separately, then each part that qualifies for SNBVE assignment should be given a separate SNBVE, in addition to the SNBVE for the kit as a whole.
- Assigning SNBVEs to joint publications
In the case of a joint publication, both publishers are entitled to have an SNBVE on the book. It should be made clear which number identifies which publisher. However, if only one publisher is to hold stock and distribute the publication, then it is recommended that the SNBVE of the publisher who is responsible for distribution appears in bar-coded form on the back cover of the book.
- “Out of print” editions
- Assigning SNBVE to individual chapters or other parts of a book that are made available separately
If you are making chapters or other parts of a book separately available through the normal supply chain and want to have them listed in trade databases then you should regard them as individual publications and assign SNBVEs to them. If they will only be available through a single source, such as the publisher’s website, then proprietary internal identifiers will be adequate.
When to assign a new SNBVE
- A revised edition of an existing book
A (substantial) change of text requires a new SNBVE, and if revisions have been made then the reverse of the title page should state that the book is a revised edition, and the new SNBVE should be printed there.
- A new language edition of an existing book
Each different language edition of a book needs its own SNBVE.
- A change of format
Different formats need different SNBVEs in order, for example, that a customer who wants to buy a digital book in hardback rather than paperback can be confident that they will receive the correct format. Different formats of digital publications (e.g. pdf, html) also need separate SNBVEs.
- A change of title
Even if the content of the book is the same, because a change in title is such a substantial change it will require a new SNBVE to identify it.
- A change of publisher
The SNBVE identifies not only the particular publication but its publisher. If there is a change of publisher, then the new publisher must assign one of their own SNBVEs to the new publication.
- A change in usage constraints
Usage constraints are used to set the limit(s) of what a user can do with a particular digital monographic publication, for example whether it is possible to print a certain percentage of the pages, whether it is possible to lend the book and whether it is possible to enable text to speech functions. Usage constraints for a digital publication are usually set within the DRM software.. If the same content is available separately with different sets of usage constraints then each of these sets will constitute a separate monographic publication.
When to keep the same SNBVE
- A change in price
A change in price does not require a new SNBVE.
- A digital reprint
The original SNBVE must be retained, provided the publisher remains the same and there are no changes to text or digital production.
- Marketing or promotional changes
No, a new SNBVE cannot be issued solely for marketing or promotional reasons. A new SNBVE can only be issued where there are changes of text, format or binding which would justify this.