Alternatives to Koha

Evergreen is a highly-scalable, open-source integrated library system (ILS) designed to meet the needs of libraries of all sizes, from small public libraries to large academic institutions and multi-library consortiums. It provides comprehensive tools for managing library collections, patron services, and administrative functions.

Key Features

• Cataloging & Collection Management:

  • Full MARC21 cataloging support
  • Authority control and linking
  • Bibliographic record management
  • Holdings and item management
  • Copy-specific information tracking
  • Batch operations and imports

• Circulation Services:

  • Patron registration and management
  • Check-in and check-out operations
  • Holds and reserves management
  • Fine and fee management
  • Renewal and notification systems
  • Offline circulation capabilities

• Public Access:

  • Modern OPAC (Online Public Access Catalog)
  • Advanced search capabilities
  • Patron self-service portal
  • Mobile-responsive interface
  • Accessibility compliance
  • Multi-language support

• Acquisitions & Serials:

  • Purchase order management
  • Vendor management
  • Budget tracking
  • Serials check-in
  • Claiming and routing
  • Electronic resource management

• Administration & Reporting:

  • Comprehensive reporting tools
  • Statistical analysis
  • Multi-library/consortial support
  • Organizational unit hierarchy
  • Permission-based access control
  • System administration tools

• Integration & Standards:

  • Z39.50 client and server
  • SIP2 protocol support
  • LDAP authentication
  • RESTful APIs
  • Standard library protocols
  • Third-party system integration

Technical Specifications

• Database: PostgreSQL
• Backend: Perl with OpenSRF framework
• Frontend: JavaScript (AngularJS/Angular)
• Web Server: Apache HTTP Server
• Operating System: Linux (various distributions)
• Scalability: Designed for large consortiums and high-volume operations

RERO ILS is a next-generation integrated library system developed by the RERO (Réseau des bibliothèques de Suisse occidentale) consortium in Switzerland. Designed from the ground up as a modern, cloud-native solution, it focuses on serving library networks and consortiums with advanced collaborative features and a contemporary user experience.

Key Features

• Modern Architecture:

  • Built with Python and Flask framework
  • Angular-based responsive frontend
  • Elasticsearch for powerful search capabilities
  • Docker containerization for easy deployment
  • Microservices architecture
  • RESTful API design

• Consortial Focus:

  • Multi-library and multi-tenant support
  • Shared catalog management
  • Inter-library loan facilitation
  • Consortial policy management
  • Resource sharing capabilities
  • Centralized vs. distributed operations

• Advanced Cataloging:

  • Full MARC21 support with RDA compliance
  • Authority record management
  • Linked data readiness (JSON-LD)
  • Batch import and export capabilities
  • Duplicate detection and merging
  • Professional cataloging interface

• Circulation Services:

  • Comprehensive patron management
  • Flexible loan policies
  • Advanced request and hold system
  • Fine and fee management
  • Automated notification system
  • Self-service capabilities

• Acquisitions Management:

  • Purchase order workflow
  • Vendor and supplier management
  • Budget allocation and tracking
  • Receipt and invoice processing
  • Claiming and order monitoring
  • Financial reporting

• Public Discovery Interface:

  • Modern, intuitive OPAC design
  • Faceted search and filtering
  • Advanced search capabilities
  • Patron self-service portal
  • Mobile-responsive design
  • Accessibility compliance (WCAG)

• Administrative Tools:

  • Role-based access control
  • Flexible configuration management
  • Comprehensive reporting system
  • Real-time system monitoring
  • Multi-language support
  • Customizable workflows

• Integration & Standards:

  • REST API for third-party integrations
  • Standard library protocols support
  • LDAP and SSO authentication
  • OAI-PMH for metadata harvesting
  • SIP2 protocol compatibility
  • Modern web standards compliance

Technical Specifications

• Backend: Python with Flask and Invenio framework
• Frontend: Angular with TypeScript
• Database: PostgreSQL
• Search Engine: Elasticsearch
• Deployment: Docker and Kubernetes
• Operating System: Linux (containerized)
• Standards: MARC21, RDA, JSON-LD, OAI-PMH, SIP2

Unique Advantages

• Cloud-Native Design: Built for modern infrastructure with containerization and microservices
• Consortial Excellence: Specifically designed for library networks and resource sharing
• Modern UX: Contemporary user interface design for both staff and patrons
• Scalability: Designed to handle large-scale operations and high transaction volumes
• Future-Ready: Prepared for linked data and semantic web technologies