Small Church Library Software for Windows

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What is library automation software?

Library automation software helps schools, colleges, public, and private libraries with activities including book handling, title acquisition, catalog building, indexing, and circulation. This software automates core library operations that are repetitive in nature and allows librarians to search for titles in a central book record, assign unique serial numbers to titles, categorize books, and keep track of title location within the library system. Library automation system also monitors overdue books, calculates fees for late returns, and maintains records of revenue generated by subscriptions, fines, penalties, and memberships. 

The benefits of library automation software

  • Modernizing library activities: Present-day libraries often manage huge collections of titles and resources. Manual management methods are unrealistic in this digital age, and library automation system replaces past methods (e.g., card catalogs, physical due date cards) of catalog management. By managing an unlimited amount of book records and streamlining data entry and tracking, libraries and their staff members have effectively modernized through the use of such systems.
  • Error-free data entry/title tracking: Library automation software uses RFID scanners to log books in and out while capturing patron details, saving librarians from manually entering this information and preventing errors during data entry.
  • Mobile access: Popular library automation software systems offer mobile apps for both patrons and staff members. Patrons can easily search the library catalog, submit hold requests, and access available digital resources at any time from their smartphones. 

Typical features of library automation software

  • Barcoding / RFID: Use RFID and barcode technologies to manage checkouts and returns, tagging, shelf management, and anti-theft detection.
  • Catalog management: Maintain a catalog of library resources (e.g., books, journals, and newsletters).
  • Search: Allow users to search the library catalog and find information such as book availability and location.
  • Self checkouts and check-ins: Allow users to check out and return library items using library computers and/or dedicated kiosks. 
  • Serial and circulation management: Generate unique ID numbers (or tags) for all library content and patrons, and track the status and location of library resources. 

Considerations when purchasing library automation software

  • Ease-of-use paired with great support offerings. It can be difficult for any non-technical user to learn a new software’s interface, features, and functionalities. Before making a purchase, libraries should ensure that the system they choose has a short learning curve backed by quality support that is ready to help their team whenever they’re stuck or unable to resolve issues on their own.
  • Trials/Demos. Before purchasing a library automation system, you should test the software to ensure it adequately meets your needs. After you test a few different library automation tools, you can make a better, more informed decision about which system is right for your library.
  • Artificial intelligence (AI) will improve patron experience : AI is making waves in various markets, and while it has not yet made a significant impact in the library sphere, some library automation system software are being improved by AI applications. Artificial intelligence within library automation software can improve patron experiences by tracking data around their book and author preferences, average reading time, and more, and make recommendations for future content. This data will help libraries identify popular books, authors, categories, and publications to cater their catalogs to their patrons, and maximize their limited funds. 
  • Shift from on-premise to cloud-based library automation system software: Many libraries have begun shifting from traditional, on-premise software development that historically required heavy IT investments to a more flexible, cost-effective, cloud-based model. Expect this trend to continue in the coming years as even more libraries seek to cut costs and free staff up to focus on patrons.

What is library automation software?

Library automation software helps schools, colleges, public, and private libraries with activities including book handling, title acquisition, catalog building, indexing, and circulation. This software automates core library operations that are repetitive in nature and allows librarians to search for titles in a central book record, assign unique serial numbers to titles, categorize books, and keep track of title location within the library system. Library automation system also monitors overdue books, calculates fees for late returns, and maintains records of revenue generated by subscriptions, fines, penalties, and memberships. 

The benefits of library automation software

  • Modernizing library activities: Present-day libraries often manage huge collections of titles and resources. Manual management methods are unrealistic in this digital age, and library automation system replaces past methods (e.g., card catalogs, physical due date cards) of catalog management. By managing an unlimited amount of book records and streamlining data entry and tracking, libraries and their staff members have effectively modernized through the use of such systems.
  • Error-free data entry/title tracking: Library automation software uses RFID scanners to log books in and out while capturing patron details, saving librarians from manually entering this information and preventing errors during data entry.
  • Mobile access: Popular library automation software systems offer mobile apps for both patrons and staff members. Patrons can easily search the library catalog, submit hold requests, and access available digital resources at any time from their smartphones. 

Typical features of library automation software

  • Barcoding / RFID: Use RFID and barcode technologies to manage checkouts and returns, tagging, shelf management, and anti-theft detection.
  • Catalog management: Maintain a catalog of library resources (e.g., books, journals, and newsletters).
  • Search: Allow users to search the library catalog and find information such as book availability and location.
  • Self checkouts and check-ins: Allow users to check out and return library items using library computers and/or dedicated kiosks. 
  • Serial and circulation management: Generate unique ID numbers (or tags) for all library content and patrons, and track the status and location of library resources. 

Considerations when purchasing library automation software

  • Ease-of-use paired with great support offerings. It can be difficult for any non-technical user to learn a new software’s interface, features, and functionalities. Before making a purchase, libraries should ensure that the system they choose has a short learning curve backed by quality support that is ready to help their team whenever they’re stuck or unable to resolve issues on their own.
  • Trials/Demos. Before purchasing a library automation system, you should test the software to ensure it adequately meets your needs. After you test a few different library automation tools, you can make a better, more informed decision about which system is right for your library.
  • Artificial intelligence (AI) will improve patron experience : AI is making waves in various markets, and while it has not yet made a significant impact in the library sphere, some library automation system software are being improved by AI applications. Artificial intelligence within library automation software can improve patron experiences by tracking data around their book and author preferences, average reading time, and more, and make recommendations for future content. This data will help libraries identify popular books, authors, categories, and publications to cater their catalogs to their patrons, and maximize their limited funds. 
  • Shift from on-premise to cloud-based library automation system software: Many libraries have begun shifting from traditional, on-premise software development that historically required heavy IT investments to a more flexible, cost-effective, cloud-based model. Expect this trend to continue in the coming years as even more libraries seek to cut costs and free staff up to focus on patrons.

4.6 (47) Mandarin M5 is a modern online catalog, fully web based. M5 provides access to library resources from any workstation, at the library or remotely. M5 helps single libraries, libraries with multiple… Read more

Features

  • Circulation Management
  • Fee Collection
  • Periodicals Management
  • Inventory Management
  • Self Check-in/Check-out

Lucidea Integrated Library Systems

4.8 (8) SydneyEnterprise and GeniePlus are purpose-built to deliver cost-effective integrated library system and knowledge management capabilities. Lucidea offers the first ILS developed from the ground up… Read more

Features

  • Circulation Management
  • Fee Collection
  • Periodicals Management
  • Inventory Management
  • Self Check-in/Check-out

Bibliovation

(0) One simple to use, powerful Library Services Platform that reaches your library’s full universe of physical and digital assets to retrieve relevant search results. The Bibliovation LSP is a highly… Read more

Features

  • Circulation Management
  • Fee Collection
  • Periodicals Management
  • Inventory Management
  • Self Check-in/Check-out

Surpass

4.8 (74) Surpass is an affordable management system for libraries of all types, including schools, public, church, museum, and corporate libraries. Whether you’re automating a library for the first time or… Read more

Features

  • Circulation Management
  • Fee Collection
  • Periodicals Management
  • Inventory Management
  • Self Check-in/Check-out

ResourceMate

4.5 (35) Resource Library Software designed for Churches, Synagogues, Schools, Non-profits, Museums, Prisons, Professionals, Corporations, etc. “I hate to sound like a fanatic..but I am. I am so impressed… Read more

Features

  • Circulation Management
  • Fee Collection
  • Periodicals Management
  • Inventory Management
  • Self Check-in/Check-out

Destiny Library Manager

4.5 (29) More K-12 schools and districts use Follett Destiny Library Manager for managing their library resources than any other platform. Theres a reason why: Our solution not only allows librarians and… Read more

Features

  • Circulation Management
  • Fee Collection
  • Periodicals Management
  • Inventory Management
  • Self Check-in/Check-out

Genesis G4

4.9 (27) Having two great library software systems, G4 network suite or “In The Cloud” Hosted Internet Services both are dynamic, highly versatile, easy-to-use by all types of libraries.. Driven by Librarians… Read more

Features

  • Circulation Management
  • Fee Collection
  • Periodicals Management
  • Inventory Management
  • Self Check-in/Check-out

Alexandria

4.8 (24) Alexandria’s cloud-hosted library automation software empowers librarians and patrons with customizable interfaces, MARC record management, SIS integrations and WCAG/ADA compliance. Access your… Read more

Features

  • Circulation Management
  • Fee Collection
  • Periodicals Management
  • Inventory Management
  • Self Check-in/Check-out

CodeAchi Library Management System

4.6 (23) CodeAchi Library Management System also known as CodeAchi LMS, is fully featured with many sophisticated options and functions. This software is ready to perform each and every task that is vital to… Read more

Features

  • Circulation Management
  • Fee Collection
  • Periodicals Management
  • Inventory Management
  • Self Check-in/Check-out

Evolve Library

4.8 (22) Evolve ILS and it’s mobile app are used in libraries of varying sizes, from 10,000 to 200,000 holdings. The Evolve Library Management System is a state-of-the-art integrated library system that saves… Read more

Features

  • Circulation Management
  • Fee Collection
  • Periodicals Management
  • Inventory Management
  • Self Check-in/Check-out

Oliver v5

4.8 (19) Oliver v5 library management software offers a digital rich, engaging experience for the entire school community. As a fully web based solution it can be accessed from any desktop or tablet device,… Read more

Features

  • Circulation Management
  • Fee Collection
  • Periodicals Management
  • Inventory Management
  • Self Check-in/Check-out

SignUp

4.6 (17) Web-based event management application with online registration and public relation tools for libraries of all sizes.… Read more

Features

  • Circulation Management
  • Fee Collection
  • Periodicals Management
  • Inventory Management
  • Self Check-in/Check-out

Koha ILS

4.5 (15) Koha sets the standard for open-source integrated library automation systems. In use worldwide, its development is steered by a growing community of libraries collaborating to achieve their technology… Read more

Features

  • Circulation Management
  • Fee Collection
  • Periodicals Management
  • Inventory Management
  • Self Check-in/Check-out

Insignia Library System

4 (14) The Insignia Library System is a full-featured library system. It is web-based with simple point-and-click navigation; the system is easy and fun for library patrons and staff. The Insignia Library… Read more

Features

  • Circulation Management
  • Fee Collection
  • Periodicals Management
  • Inventory Management
  • Self Check-in/Check-out

SirsiDynix Symphony

4 (13) SirsiDynix Symphony is the most complete and customizable integrated library system available to libraries of all types and sizes today. SirsiDynix Symphony offers library management tools that… Read more

Features

  • Circulation Management
  • Fee Collection
  • Periodicals Management
  • Inventory Management
  • Self Check-in/Check-out

All My Books

4.2 (13) A tool to manage small libraries – either church library or office library. Built-in loan tracker and getting book details from Amazon… Read more

Features

  • Circulation Management
  • Fee Collection
  • Periodicals Management
  • Inventory Management
  • Self Check-in/Check-out

EOS.Web

4.3 (12) FOR SPECIAL LIBRARIES: A library automation system,. EOS.Web provides: easy to use screens for library staff & end-users; workflow process improvements; digital and traditional collection management;… Read more

Features

  • Circulation Management
  • Fee Collection
  • Periodicals Management
  • Inventory Management
  • Self Check-in/Check-out

Auto Librarian

4.5 (11) The new Auto Librarian Cloud is light weight and super fast. Catalog search capabilities enable all categories to be searched simultaneously. Intuitive Menu Tab System for quick access to any menu… Read more

Features

  • Circulation Management
  • Fee Collection
  • Periodicals Management
  • Inventory Management
  • Self Check-in/Check-out

Liberty

4.8 (11) Liberty is a versatile and engaging knowledge, content and library management system. It is one of the most functional rich and customisable solutions available across the world. It provides a… Read more

Features

  • Circulation Management
  • Fee Collection
  • Periodicals Management
  • Inventory Management
  • Self Check-in/Check-out

Access-It Library

4.7 (11) New Zealand Local product Accessit Library is often described as the best integrated library management system in the market. Includes anywhere, anytime access. Users can discover local resources (physical & electronic), and… Read more

Features

  • Circulation Management
  • Fee Collection
  • Periodicals Management
  • Inventory Management
  • Self Check-in/Check-out

Handy Library Manager

4.8 (11) Handy Library Manager is an affordable and easy-to-use library software designed for a small church, school, small public, prison, museum, non-profit, business, and private libraries. The basic… Read more

Features

  • Circulation Management
  • Fee Collection
  • Periodicals Management
  • Inventory Management
  • Self Check-in/Check-out

Simple Little Library System

4.8 (11) Library automation system designed by a library consultant for libraries in schools, colleges, private libraries, law firms, church libraries & specialist libraries. Start with the catalogue & add… Read more

Features

  • Circulation Management
  • Fee Collection
  • Periodicals Management
  • Inventory Management
  • Self Check-in/Check-out

Koha

4.4 (10) Koha is the first free software library automation package. In use worldwide, its development is steered by a growing community of users collaborating to achieve their technology goals. Kohais a… Read more

Features

  • Circulation Management
  • Fee Collection
  • Periodicals Management
  • Inventory Management
  • Self Check-in/Check-out

LITTERA

4.8 (10) Literature management system designed for libraries.… Read more

Features

  • Circulation Management
  • Fee Collection
  • Periodicals Management
  • Inventory Management
  • Self Check-in/Check-out

CyberTools for Libraries

4.8 (9) Library Services Platform: One unified search portal + easy-to-design A-Z for all your print + digital resources. Find information faster by embedding A-Z widgets and catalog search windows directly… Read more

Features

  • Circulation Management
  • Fee Collection
  • Periodicals Management
  • Inventory Management
  • Self Check-in/Check-out

Atriuum

4.8 (9) Atriuum is a 2016 MLA Platinum Award winning “cloud-based” Integrated Library System designed for any library. Atriuum was built upon the principals of providing easy-to-use library automation… Read more

Features

  • Circulation Management
  • Fee Collection
  • Periodicals Management
  • Inventory Management
  • Self Check-in/Check-out

ps-biblio

4.6 (9) ps-biblio is one of the leading software solutions for managing libraries in German-speaking countries (> 3,000 libraries)… Read more

Features

  • Circulation Management
  • Fee Collection
  • Periodicals Management
  • Inventory Management
  • Self Check-in/Check-out

LPT:One

3.9 (8) On-premise & cloud-based solution for libraries that helps automate & control processes for releasing prints across windows & macOS.… Read more

Features

  • Circulation Management
  • Fee Collection
  • Periodicals Management
  • Inventory Management
  • Self Check-in/Check-out

LibraryWorld

3.5 (6) Let LibraryWorld take the complexity and high cost out of automating your library. Use this state of the art Web based system to build your collection and start circulating today. Start your free… Read more

Features

  • Circulation Management
  • Fee Collection
  • Periodicals Management
  • Inventory Management
  • Self Check-in/Check-out

Apollo

4.8 (6) Apollo was the Product of the Year for 2016 and 2017! The ILS from Biblionix topped all other products in the Modern Library Awards competition. Biblionix is devoted solely to public libraries. And… Read more

Features

  • Circulation Management
  • Fee Collection
  • Periodicals Management
  • Inventory Management
  • Self Check-in/Check-out

MODERNLIB

4.2 (6) MODERNLIB is a complete barcode integrated Library Automation of software for schools, colleges and universities. Nearly 500 happy customers are using MODERNLIB Library Automation software satisfactor… Read more

Features

  • Circulation Management
  • Fee Collection
  • Periodicals Management
  • Inventory Management
  • Self Check-in/Check-out

OPALS

4.8 (5) -OPAC, Cataloging, Circulation, Database authentication, eBook management, Asset & Textbook management… OPALS Open-source Automated Library System is feature-rich, cooperatively developed,… Read more

Features

  • Circulation Management
  • Fee Collection
  • Periodicals Management
  • Inventory Management
  • Self Check-in/Check-out

Readerware

4 (4) Windows-based library automation solution that lets organizations manage operations via tools such as barcoding, cataloging, & more.… Read more

Features

  • Circulation Management
  • Fee Collection
  • Periodicals Management
  • Inventory Management
  • Self Check-in/Check-out

Concord Infiniti

3.8 (4) Concord Infiniti Integrated Library Services is a powerful tool, designed & developed to improve the educational outcomes of students at your school. Infiniti is a purpose built K-12 school library… Read more

Features

  • Circulation Management
  • Fee Collection
  • Periodicals Management
  • Inventory Management
  • Self Check-in/Check-out

Easylib Library Automation Software

4 (4) Easylib is a comprehensive Library Services Platform. You can perform all traditional activities related to the library i.e. OPAC Updates, Acquisition, Cataloguing, Circulation, Serial Control etc.… Read more

Features

  • Circulation Management
  • Fee Collection
  • Periodicals Management
  • Inventory Management
  • Self Check-in/Check-out

T.M.A.S.

5 (4) SMS Storetraffic’s automated Patron Counting solutions include our powerful cloud-based platform & app to analyze visitor trends. Access your patron count data, real-time occupancy, and all your… Read more

Features

  • Circulation Management
  • Fee Collection
  • Periodicals Management
  • Inventory Management
  • Self Check-in/Check-out

LibAnswers

4.3 (3) Library engagement platform which enables reference service through a built-in knowledge base.… Read more

Features

  • Circulation Management
  • Fee Collection
  • Periodicals Management
  • Inventory Management
  • Self Check-in/Check-out

LIBSYS 10

4.7 (3) LIBSYS 10 is a web based library management solution to enhance the total library experience through value added features and services. It covers Acquisition, Cataloguing, Circulation, Serials along… Read more

Features

  • Circulation Management
  • Fee Collection
  • Periodicals Management
  • Inventory Management
  • Self Check-in/Check-out

WorldShare Management Services

4.3 (3) Cloud-based library management solution that allows businesses to manage workflow processes via task management, cataloging and more.… Read more

Features

  • Circulation Management
  • Fee Collection
  • Periodicals Management
  • Inventory Management
  • Self Check-in/Check-out

LIBERO

5 (3) Developed in collaboration with librarians, the LIBERO portfolio includes customizable discovery, consortia and mobile solutions that are fully interoperable with the core library management… Read more

Features

  • Circulation Management
  • Fee Collection
  • Periodicals Management
  • Inventory Management
  • Self Check-in/Check-out

Sierra

4.7 (3) Innovative’s Sierra Integrated Library System provides a powerful, modern foundation for extra large public libraries and universities. Sierra supports public libraries and higher education libraries… Read more

Features

  • Circulation Management
  • Fee Collection
  • Periodicals Management
  • Inventory Management
  • Self Check-in/Check-out

VERSO

4 (2) VERSO satisfies the needs of library systems ranging in size from single-branch libraries to multi-branch city and county systems. North-Americas first SaaS system, this modular built software allows… Read more

Features

  • Circulation Management
  • Fee Collection
  • Periodicals Management
  • Inventory Management
  • Self Check-in/Check-out

Library Manager

4 (2) Helps in managing all library data such as student and staff book, digital media database, and various reports for books.… Read more

Features

  • Circulation Management
  • Fee Collection
  • Periodicals Management
  • Inventory Management
  • Self Check-in/Check-out

LiBRARYSOFT

4 (1) Library software featuring: Visual Trees, Subject Trees, MARC Downloads, Layered Searches, and more.… Read more

Features

  • Circulation Management
  • Fee Collection
  • Periodicals Management
  • Inventory Management
  • Self Check-in/Check-out

LIBRARIAN

3 (1) LIBRARIAN is a Library Management Software with all the international standards like MARC21, Z39.50, AACR2 etc. needed to manage a Learning Resource Centre of any type and any size. It has all the… Read more

Features

  • Circulation Management
  • Fee Collection
  • Periodicals Management
  • Inventory Management
  • Self Check-in/Check-out

SoutronGLOBAL

4 (1) Soutron Legal Library Management is designed for managing information assets (physical or digital) in a law firm. The key to Soutrons flexibility is our database. It is designed to be easy to… Read more

Features

  • Circulation Management
  • Fee Collection
  • Periodicals Management
  • Inventory Management
  • Self Check-in/Check-out

Library Content Manager

5 (1) Web-based library software developed in PHP Framework Codeigniter 3.… Read more

Features

  • Circulation Management
  • Fee Collection
  • Periodicals Management
  • Inventory Management
  • Self Check-in/Check-out

KLAS

(0) KLAS v7 is a full-featured ILS based on professional cataloguing and circulation practices, with a foundation based on USMARC standard formats for bibliographic data. It manages the broad functions… Read more

Features

  • Circulation Management
  • Fee Collection
  • Periodicals Management
  • Inventory Management
  • Self Check-in/Check-out

Library.Solution

(0) Since 1974, The Library Corporation’s singular focus has been to provide outstanding and unparalleled service to its customers. TLC’s software systems and hardware solutions are trusted by more than… Read more

Features

  • Circulation Management
  • Fee Collection
  • Periodicals Management
  • Inventory Management
  • Self Check-in/Check-out

Aleph

(0) Integrated system that manages all aspects of local libraries of any size and structure.… Read more

CONCLUSION

Small Church Library Software for Windows is easy to use, has a wide range of features, and is quite reasonably priced. The organizational features of this software will make the librarian’s job easier when processing books and CDs.

You’ve built your small church library software foundation, and now you need something to manage it. The good news is there are numerous programs which are designed to work with small church libraries. Some of these programs are Windows-based or available as Windows-compatible solutions. Because your core program(s) will probably be web-based, we’re going to focus on the rest of your existing software.

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