Koha System

Importing MARCReady Output Into Koha

How to import MARCReady MARC21 or MARCXML output into Koha using Koha's staged MARC import workflow.

May 12, 2026 3 min read

After reviewing and exporting records from MARCReady, you can import the output into Koha using Koha’s staged MARC import tools.

For migrations, always test with a small file before importing a full catalogue.

Export from MARCReady

MARCReady supports these output formats:

Format	Extension	Use case
MARC21 Binary	.mrc	Standard MARC import workflow
MARCXML	.marcxml	XML-based MARC import workflow

Before importing into Koha

Before staging the file in Koha:

Keep a copy of the original source export.
Keep a copy of the MARCReady export.
Start with a small sample file.
Confirm whether the file contains item data.
Decide whether records should overlay existing records or be added as new records.
Review matching rules with your migration team or Koha administrator.

Stage records in Koha

In the Koha staff interface, go to: More → Tools → Catalog → Stage MARC records for import.

Upload the MARCReady export file and choose the appropriate staging options. Depending on your Koha version and configuration, you may need to review record type, character encoding, matching rule, action if a matching record is found, item processing options, and whether to ignore, add, replace, or preserve item data.

Review staged records

After staging, review the batch before importing it into the catalogue. Check: number of records staged, number with errors, number matching existing records, number of items staged, any warnings or failed records, and whether titles, authors, ISBNs, and item data display as expected.

Matching rules

Matching rules affect whether Koha treats incoming records as new records or possible matches to existing records. Common matching points include ISBN, control number, title and author combinations, and local identifiers.

For migrations into an empty Koha system, matching may be less important. For imports into an existing Koha catalogue, matching rules are critical because they affect overlays and duplicates.

Item handling

Item data controls copy-level information such as barcode, branch, shelving location, item type, call number, copy number, and status. During import, review whether item data should be added, ignored, replaced, or handled separately.

Test before full import

Recommended test process:

Export a small sample from MARCReady.
Stage the file in Koha.
Review staged record counts and warnings.
Import into a test Koha environment where possible.
Check records in the staff interface and OPAC.
Adjust mappings or import settings.
Repeat until the result is acceptable.
Process the full catalogue only after the test looks correct.

After import

After importing records into Koha, review: search results, OPAC display, staff record display, ISBN search, author search, subject search, item barcodes, branch and location values, item types, and circulation rules that depend on item type or branch.

When to ask for help

Contact KohaSupport if your export format is unusual, your records contain complex local fields, item data is missing or inconsistent, Koha reports many MARC errors during staging, you are unsure how to choose matching rules, you are importing into an existing live Koha catalogue, or you need a full migration plan.