An open-source OpenBiblio alternative with no web server to set up.

OpenBiblio is a long-running, open-source library system aimed at small and rural libraries. It's a PHP web application, so before the first book goes in, someone has to install a web server, PHP and a MySQL database, and keep them updated.

Khulla is an open-source alternative for libraries that would rather skip that. It installs like any other app, keeps the catalogue in one file on the library's computer, and works with no internet.

OpenBiblio vs Khulla

Why choose Khulla over OpenBiblio

• Nothing to host. No web server, PHP or MySQL to install, patch or back up separately.
• Runs where you are. Windows, Linux and Android apps, and a web version.
• In Nepali and rupees. A full Nepali interface and lakh-grouped Nepalese rupees. More for libraries in Nepal.
• The whole desk in one app. Lending, holds, fines, member categories with their own loan rules, barcode labels, staff roles and CSV reports.
• One-file backup. Export the whole library and restore it on any computer.

When OpenBiblio is still the better choice

Choose OpenBiblio if members need to search the catalogue in a browser, or several computers need to work on one catalogue at once, and you're happy to run a web server for it. Khulla doesn't do those yet. For Koha, Evergreen, SLiMS and BiblioteQ too, see open-source library management software compared.

Questions

What is a good open-source alternative to OpenBiblio?

If you want to avoid running a web server, Khulla is an open-source library app that installs like any other program and works offline. If you need a web catalogue members can search, Koha and SLiMS are the other open-source, web-based choices.

Does Khulla need PHP or MySQL like OpenBiblio?

No. Khulla keeps the catalogue in one SQLite file on the computer it runs on. There is no web server, PHP or database server to install.

Can I import my OpenBiblio records into Khulla?

Not yet: Khulla has no MARC or spreadsheet import today. Copies can keep their existing barcodes, so a library switching over can add titles as books come across the desk.

See if Khulla fits your library

Open the demo in a browser: nothing to install, no account to create. When it fits, download Khulla for Windows, Linux or Android.