Ghana Library Authority launches Online Application System for ISBN, ISMN, CIP Issuance

Ghana Library Authority has launched an online application system for the issuance of International Standard Book Numbers (ISBN), International Standard Serial Numbers (ISSN), International Standard Music Numbers( ISMN) and Cataloguing in Publication (CIP). The online platform which was rolled out in November 2020 as part of the technology strategy has undergone rigorous testing. The official launching is to enable its use by players in the publishing industry in Ghana.

Speaking at the launching, the Chief Executive of the Ghana Library Authority (GLA), Hayford Siaw, highlighted the relevance of the online application system by explaining that, it will allow allow stakeholders to sit in the comfort of their homes and offices and log onto the website of GhLA (library.gov.gh) to apply.

“This online application system will increase the efficiency and speed of the issuance process of this ISO certification for information and documentation,” he stated.

This ISBN is a 13 digit unique identifier for books used by publishers, booksellers, libraries, internet retailers and other supply chain participants for ordering, listing, sales records and stock control purposes. The ISSN is also an eight digit serial number used to uniquely identify a serial publication, such as a magazine, newspaper, among others. ISMM is a unique identifier given to printed music.

Ghana Library Authority has also announced the offering of Cataloguing in Publication (CIP) service for the Ghanaian publishing industry. Hayford Siaw who impressed with the patronage of the CIP service indicated that; this will help books to be efficiently processed when procured by libraries. The CIP is a bibliographic record prepared by the Ghana Library Authority for a book that has not yet been published.

The author of “the Faithful Church”, Francis Ahedor, testified of this service

“I would like to commend the Ghana Library Authority for automating the ISBN process. It is fast, convenient, and very affordable. I didn’t go through the hustle of traffic, transport fare and the risk of getting COVID-19, and the amazing part is, I received my ISBN instantly via email after meeting all the requirements. It saved me time and money”.

To apply for ISO certification for printed and Information materials in Ghana: visit libarary.gov.gh.

By Peter Moadow