RCLS: ILS Services: Koha Offline Circulation

If you cannot access Koha because of a local network outage, you may be able to continue using Koha using a mobile data plan. If the library has a mobile hotspot, or a tablet with a mobile data plan, Koha can be accessed via any modern web browser. Continuing to circulate via Koha proper is always preferable to using the Offline Tool.

Inexpensive Bluetooth scanners are available and work with bluetooth enabled mobile devices. We've tested and have had success with the NETUM C750 and NETUM NT-1228BC models, both available from Amazon.

The Koha Offline Circulation Tool is a program installed locally on a circulation computer that allows you to check out materials while Koha is unavailable, whether due to a systemwide outage or a local internet outage in your building or area.

As each file generated by the tool needs to be uploaded individually, we recommend that no more than 2 instances of the tool be installed per library building.

Hybrid and supported libraries can email the helpdesk to request the installation of the tool on designated machines.

Independent libraries can find the tool installer on GitHub.

As a last resort, you can scan patron and item barcodes directly into a spreadsheet program. Note that scanning barcodes will always be more accurate than hand keying them. When access to the ILS is restored, these transactions must be manually entered by a staff member. No automation is available for this method. Not recommended.