Koha is here!

Koha is Here!

On October 30, we switched to an entirely new Integrated Library System (ILS), the software we use to manage your library account, purchase and process materials, and to check items in & out. Our new system is on an open-source platform called Koha.

What's Good About It? 

The library's old system has worked well for us for many years but was slow to change and adapt. We needed a system that’s more like our library today: agile, modern, adaptable, and user-friendly.

Searching for things in the catalog will be much easier, getting you to the best result as quickly as possible. It will also feature responsive web design, so you can use it from your smartphone just as easily. You'll be able to add your own messaging options for alerts and notices, and add your due dates to your online calendar.  Lastly, librarians care a lot about your privacy. So we're excited that Koha will better protect your searching and library transactions!

Because Koha is open source software, after the initial year, we'll be saving a significant amount of money. This will allow us to invest in other areas of the library! It also means that we'll be able to make changes based on our patrons' needs, and collaborate with other libraries around the world to make the software work for us. 

What Does This Mean for Me?

1. When you visit our online catalog and log into your account after October 30, you will need to reset your pin. Your new default pin will be set to the last four digits of your phone number. Call us at (603) 427-1540 if you have any questions!
2. If you use Lynda.com through us, your new login information is your library barcode and the same pin you use to log into the catalog.

Any questions? Contact us at libinfo@cityofportsmouth.com, or call the main desk at (603) 427-1540.