Koha. The World’s Leading Open-Source Library System.

Built for Libraries, by Librarians

Koha isn’t just another library system—it’s a global collaboration. First released in 1999, Koha was the world’s first open-source Integrated Library System (ILS), and today it powers tens of thousands of libraries across every continent.

Created and maintained by a community of librarians and developers, Koha reflects real library needs and evolves rapidly with new features, security updates, and global language support.

Open-source. No Vendor Lock-In.

Koha is fully open-source and licensed under the GNU General Public License (GPL), giving you full control over your library system:

  • No software licensing fees
  • No restrictions on features or modules
  • No dependency on a single vendor

You can run Koha yourself or use a pre-configured image like ours to get started faster.

Note: Our Free Tier image includes all core Koha features but limits the number of bibliographic records and items. It’s designed for small to medium-sized libraries, pilot projects, and testing. You can upgrade at any time to remove these limits.

Whether you have in-house expertise or choose a support provider, you’re never locked in. Koha gives you true ownership of your system and data.

Cloud-Ready with AWS

Deploy Koha in minutes using our pre-configured Amazon Machine Images (AMIs). Run it on your own AWS account for maximum control, scalability, and reliability. No manual setup. No Linux configuration. Just launch and go.

All-in-One, Web-Based Interface

Koha’s clean, intuitive web interface replaces clunky, outdated systems. It offers:

  • A staff portal for cataloging, circulation, and administration
  • A public catalog (OPAC) for patrons to search and manage their accounts
  • Mobile-ready access with no need for software installation

Everything is browser-based—no downloads, no desktop apps.

Enterprise-Class Features

Koha is a modern, cloud-ready system with all the tools you need to run a professional library:

  • Standards Compliant: MARC21, UNIMARC, z39.50, SIP2, NCIP
  • Full-Text & Federated Search
  • Custom Reports & SQL Queries
  • Multilingual Interface
  • Automated Notices (Email/SMS)
  • Offline Circulation
  • Label & Card Printing
  • Seamless Data Migration

You can even extend Koha with community plugins or build your own custom features.

Affordable for All

Koha offers the power of enterprise systems like Alma, Sierra, and Symphony—at a fraction of the cost. It’s ideal for public, academic, school, and special libraries of any size.

Whether you’re managing 1,000 or 1 million records, Koha adapts to your needs and scales easily as your library grows.

A Global Community

Koha is more than software—it’s a movement. Thousands of librarians and developers contribute to its continuous improvement. The name “Koha” comes from the Māori word for a gift, representing the project’s open and collaborative spirit.

  • Biannual feature releases
  • Monthly security and bugfix updates
  • Shared development and documentation
  • Worldwide support network

Ready to Try Koha?

Explore the demo site, or launch your own free instance on AWS today.

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