Course Details

Koha Library Management System Training Course

INTRODUCTION

Koha is an open-source Integrated Library System (ILS) used by libraries around the world to manage their collections, catalogs, and daily library operations. It is known for its user-friendly interface and comprehensive features that allow libraries to manage circulation, acquisitions, cataloging, serials, and patron services efficiently. This training course is designed to provide librarians, library staff, and information professionals with the necessary skills to effectively use Koha in managing library operations. Participants will gain hands-on experience in navigating the system, cataloging materials, managing patrons, running reports, and more.

This course will empower library professionals to optimize their workflow, improve access to resources, and enhance service delivery to library users through the effective use of Koha. This Koha Library Management System training course will provide participants with comprehensive knowledge and practical skills to manage library operations efficiently using Koha. Participants will leave the course equipped to handle various modules of Koha, implement effective cataloging, manage patrons, and generate insightful reports. This course will enhance the overall functionality of the library and improve the quality of services delivered to users.

This Koha Library Management System training course will provide participants with comprehensive knowledge and practical skills to manage library operations efficiently using Koha. Participants will leave the course equipped to handle various modules of Koha, implement effective cataloging, manage patrons, and generate insightful reports. This course will enhance the overall functionality of the library and improve the quality of services delivered to users.

DURATION

10 days

COURSE OBJECTIVES

By the end of this training, participants will be able to:

1. Understand the fundamentals of Koha: Learn the key features and modules of Koha Library Management System.
2. Effectively manage library collections: Master cataloging, acquisitions, and circulation functions using Koha.
3. Improve patron services: Learn how to manage patron accounts, loan policies, and notifications.
4. Customize and configure Koha: Gain the ability to configure Koha to fit the specific needs of your library, including setting up user privileges, loan rules, and OPAC customization.
5. Use Koha’s reporting tools: Understand how to generate and customize reports to analyze library usage, circulation statistics, and collection data.
6. Implement effective cataloging practices: Learn to add, edit, and delete records, manage bibliographic and authority records, and apply MARC standards.
7. Handle serials and acquisitions: Manage subscriptions, orders, and budgeting within Koha’s acquisitions and serials modules.
8. Perform Koha system administration tasks: Learn basic administration tasks, such as user management, backups, and security settings.

TARGET AUDIENCE

This course is ideal for:

1. Librarians: Professionals responsible for managing library resources and services who are looking to adopt or transition to Koha.
2. Library Technicians and Assistants: Staff who handle day-to-day operations of the library and interact with library software systems.
3. Library IT Administrators: Personnel involved in maintaining the library’s technical infrastructure and managing the Koha system’s backend.
4. Information Managers: Individuals who oversee the management of information resources in libraries, archives, or educational institutions.
5. Library Students and Interns: Aspiring librarians or library science students interested in learning practical skills related to library management systems.
6. Library Consultants and Advisors: Professionals providing advisory or implementation services to libraries looking to adopt Koha or improve their use of it.

COURSE CONTENT

Module 1: Introduction to Koha

• Overview of Koha and its architecture
• Key modules of Koha: Cataloging, Circulation, Acquisition, Serials, and Patron Management
• Understanding the Koha interface: Staff interface and Online Public Access Catalog (OPAC)

Module 2: Cataloging with Koha

• Introduction to cataloging standards (MARC 21)
• Adding, editing, and deleting bibliographic records
• Managing authority records
• Handling item types and barcoding

Module 3: Circulation Management

• Setting up loan rules and fines
• Checking in and out items
• Placing holds and managing reserves
• Managing overdues, renewals, and item returns

Module 4: Patron and User Management

• Creating and managing patron accounts
• Defining patron categories and circulation privileges
• Managing patron notifications and overdue alerts
• Using patron data for library services and outreach

Module 5: Acquisitions and Budgeting

• Setting up budgets and funds
• Ordering and receiving library materials
• Tracking vendor information
• Managing purchase orders and invoices

Module 6: Managing Serials in Koha

• Creating and managing serial subscriptions
• Tracking issues and managing claims
• Handling serial check-in and binding

Module 7: Reports and Data Analysis

• Generating reports using Koha’s built-in reporting tools
• Customizing SQL reports for circulation, patron, and collection data
• Exporting data for analysis and decision-making

Module 8: Koha System Administration

• Setting up user roles and permissions
• Customizing Koha’s interface and OPAC
• Managing backups and security settings
• Integrating Koha with third-party systems (e.g., self-check systems)

Module 9: Troubleshooting and Support

• Common issues and how to resolve them
• Accessing Koha support and user communities
• Keeping the system updated with new releases and features

CERTIFICATION

• Upon successful completion of this training, participants will be issued with Macskills Training and Development Institute Certificate

TRAINING VENUE

• Training will be held at Macskills Training Centre. We also tailor make the training upon request at different locations across the world.

AIRPORT PICK UP AND ACCOMMODATION

• Airport pick up and accommodation is arranged upon request

TERMS OF PAYMENT

• Payment should be made to Macskills Development Institute bank account before the start of the training and receipts sent to info@macskillsdevelopment.com