Navigating BISAC Subject Codes and Perlego Filters

Perlego utilises several methods to curate and organise content, but the foundation of our categorisation system begins with BISAC (Book Industry Standards and Communications) codes. This guide explains how these industry-standard identifiers ensure your titles are surfaced to the correct academic and professional audiences.

1. What is a BISAC Code?

A BISAC code is a standardised subject identifier within a book’s metadata that informs our system of the title's primary subject and specific topics.

• For ONIX Users: If you deliver metadata via ONIX, it is highly likely you are already including these codes within your files.

• For Excel Template Users: If you are using our Excel Metadata Template, you must manually provide at least one relevant BISAC code for each title to ensure successful ingestion and categorisation.

2. Understanding the Code Structure

BISAC codes consist of a main alphabetical identifier (representing the broad category) followed by a six-digit numerical code that defines the specific sub-topic. As the code becomes more detailed, the title becomes easier for readers to find through our filter system.

Example: The History Category

3. Best Practices for Categorisation

To maximise the discoverability of your titles, we recommend the following practices:

Use Specific Codes

Whenever possible, avoid using "General" codes. The more specific the BISAC code, the more accurately Perlego can map your title to relevant academic subjects and student reading lists.

Multiple Subject Identifiers

You can provide more than one BISAC code for a single title to reflect its cross-disciplinary appeal. In your metadata, simply separate multiple codes with a comma.

Example: HIS010000, POL049000 (This title would be categorised under both European History and Political Science).

Accessing the Full List

The BISAC subject heading list is maintained and updated annually by the Book Industry Study Group (BISG). You can browse the complete and current list of headings on their official website:

👉 Book Industry Study Group (BISG) Website

How BISAC Impacts User Filters

Once your content is live, these codes directly feed into the "Subject" and "Topic" filters on the Perlego platform. Accurate BISAC tagging ensures that when a student filters for "Medieval History," your relevant titles appear immediately, increasing engagement and potential royalty earnings.