Can a (Pvt) Ltd Company Apply? Complete Procedure Explained
Publishing a book is no longer limited to individual authors. In Sri Lanka, many private limited companies ((Pvt) Ltd)—such as publishing houses, educational institutions, training companies, and even corporate brands—publish books, manuals, and learning materials.
One of the most important requirements for publishing a book professionally is obtaining an ISBN number.
This article explains:
- What an ISBN is
- Whether a (Pvt) Ltd company can apply for an ISBN
- The step-by-step procedure in Sri Lanka
- Key rules and practical tips for publishers
What Is an ISBN?
ISBN (International Standard Book Number) is a globally recognized unique identification number assigned to books and book-like publications.
An ISBN:
- Identifies a book uniquely worldwide
- Helps bookstores, libraries, distributors, and online platforms track and sell books
- Confirms the publisher of record
Current Standard
- ISBN-13 (13 digits)
Example:978-955-XXXX-XX-X
Who Can Apply for an ISBN in Sri Lanka?
In Sri Lanka, ISBNs can be issued to:
- Individual authors
- Partnerships
- NGOs
- Private Limited Companies ((Pvt) Ltd)
- Registered publishing houses
✅ Yes, a (Pvt) Ltd company CAN apply for ISBN numbers
In fact, applying as a company is recommended if:
- You publish multiple books
- You plan long-term publishing activity
- You want the company name to appear as the official publisher
Advantages of Applying as a (Pvt) Ltd Company
When a company applies for ISBNs:
- Company Name Becomes the Publisher
- The ISBN database will show your (Pvt) Ltd as the official publisher
- Can Receive a Block of ISBNs
- Useful for publishing multiple books in the future
- Professional Credibility
- Ideal for educational publishers, corporate training materials, and branded publications
- Better Control
- ISBNs remain with the company even if authors change
Authority Responsible for ISBN in Sri Lanka
ISBNs in Sri Lanka are issued by:
National Library and Documentation Services Board (NLDSB)
📍 Colombo, Sri Lanka
This is the official ISBN agency recognized internationally.
Step-by-Step Procedure for a (Pvt) Ltd Company to Apply for ISBN in Sri Lanka
Step 1: Ensure Company Registration
Your company must be:
- Registered under the Companies Act No. 07 of 2007
- Have a valid Certificate of Incorporation
Step 2: Prepare Required Documents
For a (Pvt) Ltd company, the following are usually required:
- Copy of Certificate of Incorporation
- Company Business Registration Number
- Company address and contact details
- Name of responsible officer / director
- Intended type of publications (books, textbooks, manuals, etc.)
Step 3: Obtain ISBN Application Form
- Application forms are available from:
- National Library (physical submission), or
- Sometimes via official request/email (depending on current procedure)
You must indicate:
- Publisher name (company name)
- Type of applicant (Publisher / Company)
- Whether requesting single ISBN or a block
Step 4: Submit the Application
- Submit the completed form with documents to:
National Library & Documentation Services Board - Submission is usually manual (physical)
📌 Tip: If you plan to publish many books, request a publisher ISBN block instead of a single ISBN.
Step 5: ISBN Allocation
Once approved:
- ISBN number(s) will be issued
- Your company will be registered as a recognized publisher
- Processing time is usually a few working days
In most cases, ISBNs in Sri Lanka are free or issued at a nominal cost.
Important ISBN Rules Every Company Should Know
1. Each Format Needs a Separate ISBN
A single title needs different ISBNs for:
- Paperback
- Hardcover
- eBook (PDF / EPUB)
- Audiobook
2. ISBN Is Not Copyright
- ISBN identifies the book
- Copyright must be registered separately if needed
3. ISBN Cannot Be Reused
Once assigned, an ISBN:
- Cannot be transferred
- Cannot be reused for another title or edition
4. Revised Editions Need New ISBNs
Any major revision, new edition, or content update requires a new ISBN.
ISBN vs ISSN (Common Confusion)
| ISBN | ISSN |
|---|---|
| For books | For magazines & journals |
| One-time publication | Periodical publication |
| Identifies publisher & title | Identifies serial publication |
📌 A company publishing magazines or journals needs ISSN, not ISBN.
Who Should Apply as a (Pvt) Ltd Publisher?
A (Pvt) Ltd company should apply for ISBN if it publishes:
- Textbooks
- Educational materials
- Professional guides
- Training manuals
- Religious books
- Corporate publications sold or distributed publicly
Final Thoughts
In Sri Lanka, obtaining an ISBN is a straightforward and essential step for any serious publisher.
A (Pvt) Ltd company is fully eligible to apply and is often better positioned than individual authors for long-term publishing.
If you are planning to build a publishing brand, applying as a company ensures:
- Professional recognition
- Scalability
- Global acceptance of your publications
