Open source solutions for libraries: ABCD vs Koha

PurposeThe purpose of this study is to present an overview of the two open source (OS) integrated library systems (ILS) – Koha and ABCD (ISIS family), to compare their “next‐generation library catalog” functionalities, and to give comparison of other important features available through ILS modules.Design/methodology/approachTwo open source ILSs, Koha and ABCD, were compared in‐depth according to their functionalities and characteristics. A checklist was created for each module: acquisition, cataloging, serials, patron management and circulation, reports and statistics, and administration. For an online catalog module, a separate checklist with “new generation catalog” characteristics was created. The authors also defined an additional set of criteria which could influence the decision process and selection of appropriate ILS like funding, metadata schema, preferred ILS functionalities, provided support, and the role of the IT department, and computer and network infrastructure in the library.FindingsEvaluation of ILSs reveals that Koha has more functionalities than ABCD, especially those connected with the “next generation library catalog”. If a library is using UNIMARC or MARC21 format for bibliographic description and has a good IT support, Koha is an open source ILS with a wide community which has to be considered for implementation. ABCD has great metasearch possibilities and is worth considering by libraries using other or no metadata schemas or without IT support.Research limitations/implicationsThe research was limited to two research libraries and their praxis and experiences. Further analysis can include other open source ILSs.Practical implicationsThis study can help libraries preparing to migrate to open source ILS to choose an appropriate one.Originality/valueThis is the first comprehensive study conducted on Koha and ABCD comparing all modules in detail.