What is Koha/Aspen?

Koha is an open source Integrated Library System (ILS) software. It was developed in New Zealand and released in 1999. It includes modules for acquisitions, circulation, cataloguing, serials and reports. It is currently used worldwide by a wide variety of libraries. Koha is what library staff use to complete their tasks, manage collections, and provide services.

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Aspen is an open source Discovery System, developed by ByWater Solutions. A Discovery System provides access to a library's resources from one place. This includes books, e-books, archives, and other e-content. It provides a search interface that can also include access to additional services and and research sources. Aspen is what library users search and interact with. 

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The SFL Catalogue is also available on a mobile phone app. Go to the App Store and search Aspen Lida. Once selected, type in the Sopchyshyn Library as your location. Enter your barcode and PIN. You will then have access to the library's holdings and also to your borrower account.

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ByWater Solutions is an ILS vendor. It is a company formed by librarians and intended for librarians. It enables and supports a library in its migration to, and on-going use of, the Koha ILS and Aspen Discovery Service. It's focus is the customer service it provides.. As stated on its website

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The mission of ByWater Solutions is to empower libraries by giving them the technological flexibility and freedom they deserve through the use of open-source software with comprehensive and honest support.
 

ByWater Solutions was created with the express goal of changing the way libraries interact with their software systems and the vendors who support them.

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