Many libraries still track books in a ledger or on old desktop programs. Cataloguing new titles by hand takes hours, overdue returns go unnoticed and readers have to visit the library just to find out whether the book they want is on the shelf. In the system we build, a new title is recorded with its bibliographic details by scanning the ISBN, and a barcode label is printed for every copy. Loans and returns take seconds, overdue reminders go out automatically, and readers can search the online catalogue and reserve a book.
Problems we see in libraries
- Long, manual cataloguing work
- Overdue returns and lost books going unnoticed
- Readers not knowing whether a book is on the shelf
- Annual stocktakes that take days
Modules
Cataloguing
Fetch records by ISBN, Dewey classification, shelf marks and copy records.
Loans and returns
Fast barcode loans, renewals and returns.
Member management
Student, staff or public membership with loan limit rules.
Online catalogue
Search by author, title or subject and request reservations.
Overdue notices
SMS or email before the due date and when items are overdue.
Stocktake and reports
Shelf stocktaking with a handheld scanner, missing item lists and circulation statistics.
How it works day to day
- 1
A new title is scanned by ISBN and its bibliographic and copy details are saved.
- 2
A barcode label is printed and the book is shelved.
- 3
The reader scans their card, the book is lent and a due date is set.
- 4
As the due date approaches the reader receives a reminder.
- 5
At the end of the term a stocktake is done and missing item and circulation reports are produced.
Integrations
Off-the-shelf software or custom-built?
When off-the-shelf is enough
For small school libraries, free or ready-made library software is often enough.
When custom software pays off
For councils and organisations with several branch libraries that want single sign-on with existing systems and a shared catalogue, a custom setup makes management easier.
How the budget is built
We launch the workflow that saves you the most time first, then add modules based on real usage. The full scope below is calculated with 15 screens and 9 modules; the final price follows a free discovery call and a written scope.
Maintenance and improvements (optional): €350 / month. Hosting, SMS, WhatsApp and app store fees are listed separately.
Frequently asked questions
Can we migrate records from our old program?
Files exported from the old system or Excel lists are mapped and imported; MARC format can also be supported.
Can students browse the catalogue on their phone?
Yes. The online catalogue is mobile-friendly and reservation requests can be made there.
Can several libraries share one system?
Yes. Collections, members and loan rules are kept separate per branch, with a shared catalogue.
How is reader data protected?
Reading history is visible only to authorised staff, and GDPR retention periods are defined.
