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KOHA FEATURE / SEARCH & DISCOVERY

Powerful Search & Discovery.

Koha provides flexible search and discovery tools that help users find library resources quickly and accurately. From simple keyword searches to advanced field-based queries, filters, relevance ranking, and browsable results, Koha supports discovery across rich bibliographic collections.

SEARCH LIBRARY CATALOGUE248 resources
Keyword ▾library catalogue query
SEARCH RESULTS
BOOK
Library collections and discoveryAuthor · Book · Available
MEDIA
Digital resources and articlesAuthor · eBook · Online

ABOUT KOHA SEARCH & DISCOVERY

Find the right resource with less effort.

Koha connects searching, filtering, browsing, bibliographic information, availability, and user discovery into a coherent experience. Simple searches can grow into precise, field-based queries as needs become more specific.

Users and staff can move from a result to a rich bibliographic record, confirm availability, and continue exploring related resources across the collection.

SEARCH JOURNEY

From a search query to a useful result.

  1. 01 Search Enter keywords, titles, authors, subjects, ISBNs, or other search terms.
  2. 02 Refine Apply filters, facets, field limits, language, item type, or availability.
  3. 03 Evaluate Review bibliographic details, subjects, formats, and related information.
  4. 04 Locate Check holdings, branches, item status, and availability.
  5. 05 Discover Open the record, place a hold, save a list, or explore related resources.

CORE SEARCH CAPABILITIES

Flexible access for different search habits.

Simple Search

Quick keyword searching across library catalogue content.

Advanced Search

Combine multiple fields and search conditions when precision matters.

Filters & Facets

Refine results by available metadata and collection attributes.

Relevance & Ranking

Present useful results according to configured discovery behavior.

Browse & Explore

Explore subjects, authors, titles, collections, branches, and other catalogue paths.

Rich Discovery Records

Present bibliographic information, holdings, availability, and related resources.

SEARCH & DISCOVERY TECHNOLOGY

Built for structured library discovery.

Koha works with MARC-based bibliographic metadata and indexed catalogue data to support field-based searching, Boolean search, relevance and ranking. Configurable search behavior helps libraries shape discovery across collections.

Filters, facets, browse paths, and OPAC discovery connect structured records with practical access to holdings and availability.

LIBRARY VALUE

Better discovery. Better access.

Faster Discovery

Help users move quickly from a question to useful library resources.

Precise Searching

Combine keywords, fields, Boolean logic, and filters for focused results.

Easier Browsing

Explore subjects, authors, titles, collections, and related catalogue paths.

Clear Availability

Show holdings, locations, item status, and access information in context.

User Self-Service

Enable users to open records, place holds, save lists, and continue exploring.

Stronger Collection Access

Make rich bibliographic collections more visible and easier to use.

CAPABILITY TO PRACTICE

Need help configuring search & discovery?

Koha provides powerful discovery capabilities. Professional configuration, search tuning, metadata preparation, and workflow support are available through Services.

Explore Services →