Side by side
ABCD vs Koha
Both stand on school library management software. Which one you can start free with, which one lets you read the code, and what each costs once you pay.
Free plan LinuxWebWindows
ABCD brings cataloguing, circulation and procurement functions together for collection-holding institutions. Its configurable database tools and protocol support are useful, but the 3.3.0 Backup Manager has a PHP zip extension requirement.
Visit ABCD Free plan APILinuxSelf-hosted+1
Koha brings a broad set of library workflows together and supports common library standards and protocols. Its software is free, but self-installation calls for Linux server access and technical skills.
Visit KohaThe facts
| ABCD | Koha | |
|---|---|---|
| Free plan | Yes | Yes |
| Open source | Not published | Not published |
| Runs on | Linux, Web, Windows | API, Linux, Self-hosted, Web |
| Lowest paid plan | Free or on request | Free or on request |
| Plans published | 1 | 1 |
| Maker | Not published | Not published |
| Website | abcd-community.org | koha-community.org |
| On school library management software | #1 of 22 | #2 of 22 |
ABCD: what it does well
- Free software for libraries and documentation centres
- Cataloguing supports MARC, ISAD-G and Dublin Core
- Includes circulation and procurement modules
- Supports Z39.50 retrieval and OAI metadata harvesting
What to know first
- Backup Manager requires the PHP zip extension
- Deployment is on-premise
Koha: what it does well
- Covers acquisitions, circulation, cataloging, serials, and reporting.
- Supports single-branch, multi-branch, and consortium use.
- Multilingual and translatable.
- Supports MARC 21, UNIMARC, and other library protocols.
- Free software under GNU GPL version 3 or later.
What to know first
- Self-installation requires a Linux server and root access.
- Installation requires command-line and Apache/MySQL skills.
- No free trial is listed.