The International Standard Book Number (ISBN) has been in place for 60 years and is a standard accredited by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO). The ISBN network comprises 150 national or regional agencies that supply ISBNs to publishers in 200 countries or territories around the world. It is a crucial piece of infrastructure for publishers providing a unique identifier for each edition of a book, which is why the IPA’s José Borghino is an ex officio Director on the International ISBN Agency Board along with representatives from national agencies, libraries and other parts of the book supply chain.
Outgoing Chair, Beat Barblan from RR Bowker (USA) handed the reins of the Agency to the new Chair, Andre Breedt from Nielsen Book (UK). Apart from reports on national and regional issues, the meeting was briefed about the book market in Brazil and agreed to hold its next AGM in Madrid in 2026. Borghino also attended a full-day strategic planning meeting of the Board.