Built for Libraries, by Librarians
Open-source library system software that can now run in the cloud
Global Collaboration
Koha isn't just another library system—it's a global collaboration. Created and maintained by a community of librarians and developers, this open-source library management system reflects real library needs and evolves rapidly with new features, security updates, and global language support.
The name "Koha" comes from the Māori word for a gift, representing the project's open and collaborative spirit.
Continuous Development
- Biannual feature releases
- Monthly security and bugfix updates
- Shared development and documentation
- Worldwide support network
A History of Innovation
From small beginnings to global impact
First Open-Source ILS
Koha becomes the world's first open-source Integrated Library System (ILS), developed in New Zealand for the Horowhenua Library Trust.
Global Adoption
Libraries worldwide begin adopting Koha, drawn by its open-source model, flexibility, and active community development.
Enterprise Features
Koha evolves to include enterprise-class features including REST APIs, advanced reporting, multilingual support for 30+ languages, and cloud-ready architecture.
Koha in the Cloud
Koha powers tens of thousands of libraries globally. You can now run it in the cloud on AWS with reliable hosting, continuous development, and a thriving community of contributors.
Open-Source. No Vendor Lock-In.
True ownership of your library system and data
No Licensing Fees
Koha is fully open-source and licensed under the GNU General Public License (GPL). No software licensing fees, ever.
No Feature Restrictions
Access to the full Koha software with all modules and features. Our pricing tiers are based on infrastructure capacity, not software features.
No Vendor Dependency
No dependency on a single vendor. Run Koha yourself or choose from multiple support providers worldwide.
Full Customization
Complete access to source code allows unlimited customization and integration with your existing systems.
Data Ownership
Your data remains yours. Export, migrate, or backup anytime without restrictions or vendor approval.
Community Support
Join a global community of libraries, developers, and vendors collaborating to improve Koha.
About the Free Tier: The Free Tier is designed for evaluation, pilot projects, and training. It includes all core Koha features, with limits on bibliographic records and items. For ongoing production use, Standard and Enterprise provide a clearer path with a 30-day trial.
Enterprise-Class Library System Features
Comprehensive integrated library system software that can run in the cloud
All-in-One Web Interface
- Staff portal for cataloging, circulation, and administration
- Public catalog (OPAC - Online Public Access Catalog) for patron self-service
- Mobile-ready access with no software installation
Standards Compliant
- MARC21 and UNIMARC cataloging standards
- Z39.50 client and server for catalog sharing
- SIP2 (Standard Interchange Protocol) for self-checkout integration
- NCIP for consortia integration
Advanced Search
- Full-text search capabilities
- Federated search across multiple sources
- Custom search filters and facets
Reporting & Analytics
- Custom report builder with SQL access
- Pre-built circulation and acquisition reports
- Data export in multiple formats
Multilingual Support
- 30+ language translations
- Multilingual catalog records
- Right-to-left language support
Automated Communications
- Email and SMS notifications
- Overdue notices and holds alerts
- Customizable notice templates
Label & Card Printing
- Spine label printing
- Barcode generation
- Patron card printing
Extensibility
- Community plugin system
- REST API for integrations
- Custom development support
Enterprise Cloud Ready
- Run Koha in the cloud on AWS
- Reliable hosting architecture
- Institutional governance and security
Koha in the Cloud on AWS
Reliable cloud hosting for modern libraries
Guided Cloud Deployment
Deploy Koha in minutes using guided setup in your own AWS account for maximum control, governance, and security.
Fast deployment. Production-ready configurations. You own the account.
Enterprise Reliability Options
Enterprise adds higher-reliability cloud options for institutions that need stronger backup, recovery, and support for busy periods. It is designed for libraries that want more resilience than a single-server setup.
Affordable for All Libraries
Reliable cloud hosting at a fraction of traditional costs
Free Tier
Best for evaluation, pilot projects, and training. $0 software cost; AWS may require a payment method for the account.
Standard Tier
Production-ready for small to medium libraries with hourly or annual billing.
Enterprise
High availability infrastructure with auto-scaling and Aurora database.
All tiers include the complete Koha library system with identical features. Choose your tier based on infrastructure requirements, not software functionality.
Ready to Start?
Start with a 30-day trial or explore the Free Tier for testing