Wasp Barcode Technologies: The Barcode Solution People

Tracking Books with ISBN Barcodes

To obtain a book barcode, start by acquiring an International Standard Book Number (ISBN). This unique identifier is essential for books and can be obtained through your country's ISBN agency or publisher.

After securing your ISBN, you can create your barcode using a free barcode generator.

One reliable option is Wasp’s free online barcode generator. This tool allows you to generate a barcode using EAN-13 symbology, which is the standard format for book barcodes.

Simply enter your ISBN and the retail price of your book into the generator. Ensure you select the correct settings and format for the EAN-13 symbology. Once you've completed these steps, the generator will provide you with a downloadable barcode image.

Creating linear barcodes themselves is typically free; there are no charges involved in generating your book barcode. This makes it easy for authors and publishers to prepare their books for distribution and sales in retail markets.

Not All books Have an ISBN Barcode

Only printed books sold commercially require an ISBN, which serves as a unique identifier for publishers and retailers. In contrast, eBooks and privately sold books do not need an ISBN. This means that many self-published works or limited editions may exist without this identifier.

For cases where a book lacks an ISBN, Orca Scan provides a solution by generating a unique barcode for the book title. This functionality is particularly useful for authors, small publishers, or individuals wanting to catalog their collections without ISBNs.

The presence of an ISBN barcode is crucial, especially for efficiently tracking and managing extensive book collections. It simplifies inventory processes, facilitates sales, and helps prevent duplication. In summary, while not all books carry an ISBN barcode, its significance in the commercial book market and collection management cannot be overstated.

How to Choose a Book Barcode Scanner for Bookstores and Libraries?

When choosing a book barcode scanner for bookstores and libraries, prioritize efficiency in two critical areas: inventory management and checkout processes.

Should you choose a wireless or USB barcode scanner? Scanners such as the Wasp WDI4200 can read ISBN barcodes quickly and accurately while staying connected via USB port to the computer at a table or checkout counter, enabling swift tracking of inventory and reducing wait times for patrons during checkouts. The machine can pick up all the book details while the cable allows your clerks to scan barcode symbols easily. For a warehouse system, you may need a more mobile option, such as the WWS750 Wireless 2D Scanner for scanning barcode images on shelves or in boxes, far from a central computer. 

Consider models like Wasp barcode scanners, known for their user-friendly interface and reliability.