Koha ILS

     Integrated library systems (ILS) are software programs that allow libraries to manage their operations, foremost the cataloging, storing, and tracking of library materials.  Libraries in the past relied on manually-sorted card catalogs and circulation records to keep track of their holdings.  Moreover, cataloging information, acquisitions, and serials information were all separated into separate spheres.  Modern libraries, however, use ILS programs which have combined these features into one interface.  Librarians can now access OPACs, and find information about circulation, cataloging, acquisitions, and serials all within one largely-automated system. (Kiess, 2011)

  

     One of the most popular open-source ILS packages available to librarians at present is Koha.   Koha was originally developed by the Horowhenua Library Trust in New Zealand.  As an open-source application, the program is distributed for free under the Free Software General Public License.  Libraries using Koha are not locked in to a certain service vendor, and are allowed to seek support from third party companies.  Additionally, Koha is compliant with bibliographic standards (e.g. MARC 21) and programming languages. 

     Koha is a highly adaptable program that can be used in many types of libraries’ operations.   Its capabilities include tracking and managing acquisitions, circulation, cataloging, serials, authority records, label printing, and more.  Libraries on every continent are utilizing Koha as their designated ILS, no doubt due to its large number of available languages.  Additionally, it is being used in a variety of libraries.  K-12 school libraries have reported using Koha, all the way up to university research libraries.  It can be integrated across library systems, or used in stand-alone institutions as well. (Koha Library Software, 2014)

     Confusingly (and unfortunately), there are several versions of Koha now available online.  Because there is no vendor lock-in for Koha users, an industry of developers has grown around the program.  Companies such Progressive Technology Federal Systems have trademarked proprietary versions of Koha that are not free to libraries, and are developed around the needs of their clients or consortia.  At present, there is the open-source Koha, LibLime Koha™, and LibLime Academic Koha™.  This situation calls attention to the delicate nature of open-source projects, and the need to articulate ownership, brand protection, and funding concerns.  As the complexity and proliferation of open-source ILS systems increases, so too will the number and complexity of related legal considerations. (Johnson, 2013)

References:

Johnson, M. (2013, April 16). Lessons from Koha in open source project ownership [Web log post]. Retrieved from http://opensource.com/education/13/4/open-source-project-lessons-koha

Kiess, C. (2011, January 16). Introduction to the integrated library system. SlideShare. Retrieved from http://www.slideshare.net/ckiess/introduction-to-the-integrated-library-system-ils-6590943

Koha Library Software. (2014). About. Retrieved from http://koha-community.org/about/