Koha System

Cleaning Existing Koha Records with MARCReady

How libraries already using Koha can use MARCReady to review and clean existing catalogue records.

May 12, 2026 3 min read

MARCReady is useful for Koha migrations, but it can also help libraries that already use Koha and want to review or clean existing records.

This workflow is especially useful after an older migration, a large import, or years of inconsistent cataloguing practice.

When existing Koha records may need cleanup

You may want to review existing Koha records if: search results are inconsistent, some titles display poorly in the OPAC, older imports created messy records, ISBN search does not work as expected, records contain broken characters, there are duplicate records, local fields are inconsistent, item data was imported into the wrong place, or staff are unsure which records are trustworthy.

What MARCReady can help review

MARCReady can help identify: invalid indicators, empty subfields, character encoding problems, ISBN formatting issues, incomplete Leader or 008 fields, duplicate or unexpected fields, and records that may need librarian review.

Export a sample from Koha first

Start with a sample, not the full catalogue. Choose records that represent the problems you want to solve, such as older records, records from a previous migration, records with display problems, records from a specific collection, and records with missing ISBNs. Keep a copy of the original export.

Review in MARCReady

Upload the sample to MARCReady and review: suggested repairs, fields flagged for review, encoding issues, repeated fields, fixed-field warnings, and ISBN cleanup suggestions. Do not assume every suggestion should be accepted — some fields may reflect local practice.

Be careful with re-imports

Before re-importing cleaned records:

Test in a non-production environment where possible.
Review matching rules.
Confirm whether item data should be preserved.
Confirm whether existing record numbers are retained.
Check whether local fields are affected.
Make a backup.
Test with a small batch.

Do not overwrite item data accidentally

Item data controls circulation and holdings. Be careful not to overwrite or remove: barcodes, item numbers, branches, shelving locations, item types, loan statuses, and lost/damaged statuses.