Reprints are a unique product offered by MDPI. In this second part of our Introduction to the Books Program, we’ll explain what a Reprint is, their benefits, and the requirements for producing them.

What is a Reprint?

A Reprint is a collection of MDPI journal articles reproduced in book format. It is important to note that a Reprint is a compilation of articles and not a ‘traditional’ book. (For example, see our Special Issue Reprints). They are, however, assigned an ISBN and DOI and are freely available in our Library.

Our Reprint service is offered to journal authors and guest editors free of charge.

Benefits of Reprints

There are many benefits to producing Reprints. A main advantage is that each Reprint is published with two International Standard Book Numbers (ISBNs). One for the online version and one for the physical version.

The assigned ISBNSs ensure that both the Reprint and the original journal issues will profit from higher visibility beyond the open access journal market.

Open access journals are not generally offered in print format, but a physical copy of a Reprint can easily be ordered to be marketed or displayed at conferences.

Guest editors receive a complimentary print copy, and contributors can order print copies at a discounted price.

Now we know their benefits, what are the requirements for Reprints?

Requirements for Reprints

The minimum number of articles in a Special Issue is 10 as of 2024, but this is subject to change. Let’s take a look at the other Reprint requirements.

Special Issues / Topics / Proceedings

• The Issue must be closed (all papers in the Issue have been published and no more submissions are expected);
• Guest editors confirm to prepare the Reprint form;
• It is not possible to select multiple Special Issues/Topics/Proceedings, Joint Special Issues, or Release Issues and combine them;
• Finally, Reprints exceeding 800 pages will be divided into multiple volumes to maintain the quality of the hardback copy.

Topical Collection Reprints

• Each volume should contain at least 10 articles, similar to Special Issue, Topics, and Proceedings Reprints;
• If you plan to produce multiple volumes, to distinguish the different volumes of your Topical Collection Reprint, the titles should be named as follows (you can choose one option):

1. Topical collection title + Volume I
2. Topical collection title + Subtitle
3. Topical collection title + Year

• To avoid including the same articles in multiple Reprints it is not allowed to reuse them for different volumes;
• It is not possible to select papers from multiple Topical Collections or combine them;
• Finally, Reprints exceeding 800 pages will be divided into multiple volumes to maintain the quality of the hardback copy.

For more information on Reprints, see our post on how Reprints differ from Open Access Books. Additionally, Reprints are available for sale on our website.

This article was transcribed from a video by MDPI Books’ Project Manager Evan Escamilla.