Systems & platforms
Koha library system implementation, migration and training in Kenya
Koha, DSpace and AtoM, delivered separately or as one Information Estate.
Koha is a widely used open-source library management system. It runs cataloguing, circulation, acquisitions and the online public catalogue. We implement Koha for libraries in Kenya, migrate your existing catalogue, train your staff and support the system once it is live.
Alongside Koha, we set up DSpace for institutional repositories and AtoM for archival description. A college or university can then manage its books, research and archives on open, portable systems.
Who it is for
TVET institutions, colleges and universities. County and community library networks. Special libraries in government, NGOs and professional bodies. Institutions moving from spreadsheets, card catalogues or an older library system to Koha. Libraries that already run Koha but need it configured, migrated or supported properly.
The problem it solves
Many libraries still manage collections in spreadsheets or on systems nobody can support. Records are inconsistent, borrowers cannot search the catalogue, and reports for management take days to compile. Theses and research sit on shelves or in folders where nobody can find them. Open systems solve this, but only when they are set up, populated and supported properly.
How we do it, step by step
Assessment
We review your collection, current catalogue data, circulation rules and the number of sites.
Koha implementation
We install and configure Koha: branches, item types, patron categories, circulation and fine rules, and the online catalogue.
Data migration
Existing records are cleaned and mapped to MARC 21, migrated from spreadsheets or an older system, and checked against the source.
Cataloguing
Where records are missing or poor, we catalogue items to an agreed standard so the catalogue is consistent.
Training
Librarians and library assistants are trained on cataloguing, circulation and reports on the live system.
Ongoing support
We support the system in business hours, apply updates and help with reports and new requirements.
Koha implementation and training
Every Koha library is set up differently, because loan rules, collections and branches differ. We configure it around your rules and train your staff on the tasks they do every day, with written guides they can keep. Koha is open-source software, so your catalogue data stays portable and is never locked to one supplier. We implement and support it as independent consultants.
DSpace institutional repository
DSpace gives a university or college an institutional repository for theses, dissertations, research papers and digital collections. We set up communities and collections, metadata and submission workflows, and can load existing material, including theses scanned from paper.
AtoM archival description
AtoM (Access to Memory) is used to describe archives and make them searchable, following archival description standards such as ISAD(G). It suits institutional archives, special collections and historical records that need description at fonds, series and file level.
One information estate
Library, repository, archives and registry records can be run separately or together. Registry and administrative records belong in an EDMS, held to the same data protection standard as the rest.
What you receive
- Koha setup, data migration, configuration and staff training
- Cataloguing to an agreed standard where records are missing or incomplete
- DSpace repository for theses, research and digital collections
- AtoM for archival description and access
- A joined-up Information Estate on one data-protection posture
Support is provided in business hours. RFID is delivered through partners.
Timelines and cost
Timelines depend on the size of the collection, the quality of existing data and the number of sites. We schedule migration and training in the proposal after the assessment. Fees are scoped per engagement, and you receive a written proposal within 48 hours.
Frequently asked questions
- Can you migrate our catalogue from Excel to Koha?
- Yes. We clean and map spreadsheet records to MARC 21, migrate them and check the result against the source.
- Do you train library staff on Koha?
- Yes. Training covers cataloguing, circulation, patrons and reports, on your own live system.
- What is the difference between Koha, DSpace and AtoM?
- Koha manages the library collection and loans. DSpace holds research and digital collections. AtoM describes archives. Many institutions need more than one.
- Do you support Koha after it goes live?
- Yes. Support is provided in business hours, including updates and help with reports.
- Is Koha a records management system?
- No. Koha manages library collections. Registry and administrative records belong in an EDMS, which we also implement.
Related services
EDMS Implementation
Our flagship: an electronic document management system configured to your organisation.
Bulk Scanning
Backlog, register and bound volume scanning to searchable, indexed PDF, on your premises or ours.
Staff Training
Hands-on training on your own live system, not generic slideware.
Managed Hosting
Hosting for your systems on vetted infrastructure, with the location agreed in writing.
Sectors this service is built for: Libraries and education.
Start with a conversation.
Tell us what your records look like today. We will meet you on site, listen, and send a written proposal within 48 hours.