Presenting ISSNs and publication information

Display the International Standard Serial Number (ISSN) in a prominent position in every issue of a serial or other continuing resource. Present information clearly and consistently to help readers and buyers find, identify and get your publications.

Displaying ISSNs

Location

Display ISSNs on publications as follows:

• For printed serials and other continuing resources, use one of these methods:
  • on the front cover (preferably in the top right-hand corner)
  • on the title page, caption, masthead, back cover, colophon, or editorial pages
• For serials and other continuing resources in electronic media:
  • on the home page, title screen or main menu if the publication is online; the ISSN should also be displayed on each article
  • on any part that may be read easily (such as microfiche header, CD-ROM or DVD label, box, case), if the publication is on a physical medium

Conventions

Basic ISSNs

Start with "ISSN" and a space, then 4 numbers, a hyphen, and 4 more digits. The ISSN may end in an "X."

ISSNs for several media versions

Display ISSNs for different media versions together on each version.

ISSNs with ISBNs

Sometimes books are published in a monographic series, with individual books having an International Standard Book Number (ISBN). In these cases, display the two numbers together, each with its own prefix of letters.

Presenting publication information

Display the following information clearly and consistently on each issue or part to help others find, identify and use your publications.

• title of serial or other continuing resource
• name of publisher
• place of publication
• numbering / date
• frequency
• ISSN