The International Standard Serial Number (ISSN) (ISSN: 0000-0000)

Description

An International Standard Serial Number (ISSN) is a unique eight-digit number used to identify a print or electronic periodical publication. Periodicals published in both print and electronic form may have two ISSNs, a print ISSN (p-ISSN) and an electronic ISSN (e-ISSN or eISSN). The ISSN system was first drafted as an ISO international standard in 1971 and published as ISO 3297 in 1975. The ISO subcommittee TC 46/SC 9 is responsible for the standard. It is an eight-digit code consisting of seven numbers plus a check digit that enables a computer to recognise when the number is incorrectly cited. The check digit may be an X ? otherwise the ISSN is fully numeric.
The ISSN is not connected with ownership of the journal, nor does it confer copyright or protect the title of the serial from use by other publishers. The ISSN does not change if, for example, the journal changes publisher.
However, a new ISSN is required if the title of the journal changes. This affects the way that the journal is catalogued within library systems, and how it is recorded in abstracting and indexing services, such as ISI and Medline. For this reason we recommend that the decision to change a journal title only be taken when the anticipated benefits outweigh the bibliographic risks associated with the change.
What are ISSNs assigned to?
ISSNs are currently assigned to the titles of serial publications in accordance with the definition below:
A serial is a publication issued in successive parts, usually having numerical or chronological designations (e.g. Vol.1, no.3, Summer 1996, etc.) and having a common title which is intended to be continued indefinitely. The definition encompasses journals, magazines, newspapers and series statements on books or monographs.
ISSNs are not assigned to one-off publications, magazine specials, newspaper specials or web sites.
Displaying the ISSN in print
The number should be printed thus: ISSN 0000-0000.
That is, it should be preceded by the initials ISSN followed by a single space, then the first four digits, then a hyphen, then the last four digits. This form of presentation is intended to make the ISSN easier to read and recognize internationally. The ISSN should preferably be printed on the top right-hand corner of the cover of a printed journal. However, if design, binding or other considerations mean the cover is unsuitable, the number may be printed in some other prominent position. The printing of the number is voluntary but is recommended in order to gain the full benefits of the ISSN system.