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ISBN 3-464-64210-0: A Comprehensive Guide to International Standard Book Numbers

January 7, 2025 by
Lewis Calvert

The International Standard Book Number (ISBN) 3-464-64210-0 represents a unique identifier in the global publishing ecosystem. This article provides an in-depth analysis of this specific ISBN, its significance, and the broader context of ISBN systems in publishing. Understanding ISBNs is crucial for publishers, librarians, booksellers, and researchers working with published materials.

Decoding ISBN 3-464-64210-0

Basic Structure Analysis

ISBN 3-464-64210-0 follows the traditional 10-digit ISBN format that was standard before the introduction of the 13-digit system. Each component of this number carries specific meaning:

The prefix "3" identifies this as a publication from the German-language publishing group, indicating its origin in the German-speaking publishing industry. The subsequent digits "464" represent the publisher identifier, while "64210" serves as the title identifier. The final "0" is the check digit, validating the ISBN's accuracy.

Publisher Information

The publisher segment "464" indicates a specific publishing house within the German publishing industry. This code was assigned by the ISBN agency responsible for German-language publications, demonstrating the book's connection to German publishing infrastructure.

Historical Context of 10-Digit ISBNs

Evolution of the System

The 10-digit ISBN system, implemented in 1970, revolutionized book identification and tracking. ISBN 3-464-64210-0 exemplifies this original format, which remained standard until the transition to 13 digits in 2007. The system's development marked a significant advancement in publishing organization and commerce.

Transition Period Significance

During the transition from 10-digit to 13-digit ISBNs, publications like the one identified by 3-464-64210-0 often received both formats. This dual identification system ensured continuity in cataloging and inventory management across the global book trade.

Technical Specifications

Check Digit Calculation

The check digit "0" in ISBN 3-464-64210-0 results from a precise mathematical calculation:

  1. Each digit is multiplied by its position weight (10 to 2)
  2. Products are summed
  3. The sum is divided by 11
  4. The remainder determines the check digit

This verification system helps prevent transcription errors and ensures data integrity.

Publication Details and Metadata

Associated Information

ISBN 3-464-64210-0 connects to specific metadata about its publication:

  • Bibliographic details
  • Publishing date
  • Format specifications
  • Edition information
  • Language of publication

Digital Integration

Modern database systems incorporate this ISBN into broader information networks, facilitating:

  • Global book trade operations
  • Library cataloging systems
  • Academic research databases
  • Online retail platforms

Industry Applications

Retail and Distribution

ISBN 3-464-64210-0 serves essential functions in the book trade:

  • Inventory tracking and management
  • Order processing and fulfillment
  • Sales data analysis
  • Market performance monitoring

Library Systems

Libraries utilize this ISBN for:

  • Catalog organization
  • Collection management
  • Inter-library loan processing
  • Acquisition procedures

Digital Age Relevance

Contemporary Usage

Despite its 10-digit format, ISBN 3-464-64210-0 maintains relevance through:

  • Historical publication records
  • Antiquarian book trade
  • Academic research
  • Library legacy systems

Digital Transformation

Modern systems accommodate this ISBN through:

  • Automated conversion to 13-digit format
  • Digital catalog integration
  • Online search functionality
  • Database cross-referencing

Research and Documentation

Academic Significance

ISBN 3-464-64210-0 facilitates:

  • Bibliographic research
  • Citation verification
  • Collection development
  • Academic documentation

Historical Preservation

The ISBN contributes to:

  • Publishing history documentation
  • Cultural heritage preservation
  • Bibliographic studies
  • Collection provenance

International Standards Compliance

Regulatory Framework

ISBN 3-464-64210-0 adheres to:

  • International ISBN Agency guidelines
  • National bibliography standards
  • Publishing industry regulations
  • Trade documentation requirements

Cross-Border Applications

The ISBN enables:

  • International trade facilitation
  • Global catalog integration
  • Multi-language publication tracking
  • International rights management

Future Considerations

Legacy System Integration

Modern publishing systems accommodate ISBN 3-464-64210-0 through:

  • Automatic format conversion
  • Database compatibility
  • Search system integration
  • Cross-reference capabilities

Digital Preservation

Maintaining access to publications with this ISBN involves:

  • Digital archiving strategies
  • Metadata preservation
  • Format migration planning
  • Access continuity assurance

Practical Applications

Bookseller Operations

Retailers utilize this ISBN for:

  • Stock management
  • Order processing
  • Sales tracking
  • Inventory control

Publishing Industry

Publishers reference this ISBN for:

  • Rights management
  • Edition control
  • Market analysis
  • Distribution tracking

Professional Recommendations

Best Practices

Industry professionals should:

  • Maintain accurate ISBN records
  • Implement proper conversion protocols
  • Ensure database compatibility
  • Follow international standards

System Integration

Organizations should focus on:

  • Database modernization
  • Format compatibility
  • Search optimization
  • Record preservation

Additional Resources and Support

For more detailed information about ISBN systems and book identification, visit Big Write Hook for comprehensive publishing industry resources and expertise.

Conclusion

ISBN 3-464-64210-0 represents more than just a book identifier; it embodies the evolution of publishing industry standards and practices. Understanding its structure and significance provides valuable insights into book trade operations, library systems, and academic research methodologies. As the publishing industry continues to evolve, this ISBN remains relevant through its integration with modern systems and its role in historical documentation.