Koha System

How to Configure Search Results in Koha Theme Builder™

Step-by-step guide to configuring search results page presentation in Koha Theme Builder™, including metadata emphasis, facets, and mobile behavior.

2 min read

This guide shows you how to configure the OPAC search results experience in Koha Theme Builder™.

What this element controls

Search result card/list presentation, metadata emphasis, facet panel styling, spacing, and related visual hierarchy.

Where patrons see it

On OPAC search results pages after keyword, title, author, or advanced searches.

Why this matters

Search results are the highest-traffic discovery screen. Better result hierarchy improves scan speed and reduces abandoned searches.

Before you start

  • Confirm your family + preset
  • Define top metadata priorities (title, author, publication date, call number)
  • Confirm mobile readability expectations

Step-by-step

  1. Open Theme Builder.
  2. Go to Search Results settings.
  3. Choose result density (compact vs spacious, if available).
  4. Set title and metadata emphasis rules.
  5. Configure cover image behavior.
  6. Configure facet/sidebar visual treatment.
  7. Check highlighted query terms and link contrast.
  8. Preview desktop and mobile.
  9. Save draft and request review.
  10. Publish after approval.

What patrons will see Cleaner result scanning, clearer metadata emphasis, and more usable filters.

Common mistakes

  • Over-emphasizing secondary metadata
  • Low-contrast links in dense result lists
  • Hiding useful facets accidentally
  • Skipping mobile result checks

Visual examples

Search results example (Cloister)

Search results example (Stonebridge)

Next Steps

After Deployment
Post-Installation Setup
Recommended
Security Best Practices
Keep It Running
Monitoring & Maintenance

More in Koha System

Was this article helpful?

Thanks for your feedback!