scope:

The purpose of this International Standard is to define and promote the use of a set of standard identifiers for the unique identification of libraries and related organizations with a minimum impact on already existing systems. An ISIL identifies an organization, i.e., a library or a related organization, or one of its subordinate units, which is responsible for an action or service in a bibliographic environment (e.g. creation of machine-readable information). It can be used to identify the originator or holder of a resource (e.g. library material). The ISIL is intended for use by libraries and agencies doing business with libraries, such as suppliers and publishers. An ISIL identifies an organization or one of its subordinate units, throughout its life. In some cases, such as when an organization has moved or undergone a significant administrative change (e.g. a merger with another organization), particularly one that results in a name change, more than one ISIL identifier may be assigned.