Koha, being an open-source LMS, regularly releases updates that bring new features, bug fixes, and security improvements. Ignoring these upgrades may lead to compatibility issues, security vulnerabilities, and missed opportunities to improve the user experience for both librarians and patrons.
How to Check for Koha Updates:
Keeping your Koha Library Management System (LMS) up-to-date is essential for security, performance, and access to new features. If you’re new to Koha, don’t worry! Here’s a simple, step-by-step guide to help you check for updates.
1. Visit the Official Koha Community Website
The Koha Community Website is the main source for information about new releases and updates.
Steps:
- Go to koha-community.org
- Click on the “Download” or “News” sections to see the latest version releases.
- Koha releases updates twice a year (major upgrades) along with regular minor updates for bug fixes and security improvements.
2. Check the Koha Version in Your Admin Dashboard
You can quickly check if your Koha is up-to-date directly from your admin panel.
Steps:
- Log in to your Koha Staff Interface (admin dashboard) with your admin credentials.
- On the top menu, navigate to “About Koha” (usually found at the bottom of the sidebar or under the ‘More’ section).
- In the About Koha page:
- Look for the Koha version you are currently using.
- It will display details like the installed version number and the date it was last updated.
- Compare this version with the latest version listed on the Koha Community website.If your version is older, it’s time for an upgrade.
3. Subscribe to Koha Mailing Lists and Forums
Staying informed helps you not miss important updates.
Steps to Stay Updated:
- Visit the Koha Mailing Lists page via the community website.
- Subscribe to:
- General Mailing list (for update announcements) Or
- Specialized list (Eg.Developers list,etc )
- Join forums like the Koha Community Forum or follow Koha-related groups on social media for real-time discussions.
Tip: Set email notifications to ensure you never miss an update announcement.
Steps to Upgrade Koha
Upgrading your Koha Library Management System (LMS) ensures you get the latest features, security patches, and bug fixes.
1. Backup Your Data (Most Important Step!)
Before you start any upgrade, always back up your data to prevent data loss if something goes wrong.
Why?
Upgrades involve system changes. Without a backup, you risk losing important data if the process encounters issues.
What to Backup:
- Database: Contains all library records, users, and settings.
- Configuration Files: Custom settings you’ve applied to Koha.
- Uploaded Files: Such as reports, notices, or cover images.
How to Backup:
- Use Koha’s built-in tools or ask your IT team to run backup commands.
- Save backups on a secure external drive or cloud storage.
If you’re unsure, seek help from a professional. Never skip this step!
2. Check System Requirements
Koha runs on a server, which uses software like Linux, Perl, and a database system (MariaDB or MySQL). Before upgrading, make sure your server meets the new version’s requirements.
Why?
Older server components may not be compatible with the latest Koha version, causing the upgrade to fail.
- Review the release notes on the Koha Community Website for specific requirements.
- Check versions of:
- Linux (operating system)
- Perl (programming language)
- Database software (MariaDB or MySQL)
- Update these components if needed.
3. Follow Upgrade Instructions (Installing the New Version)
Upgrading Koha can be technical, but you don’t have to navigate it alone. Instead of a lengthy generic guide, we recommend following the official Koha upgrade documentation for the most accurate and up-to-date instructions.
4. Test Before Going Live
Before making the upgraded version live for all users:Testing helps spot issues before they affect patrons and staff.
Steps:
- Set up a test environment (a copy of your live system).
- Check key functions: circulation, OPAC, reports, and cataloguing.
- Verify that custom settings and integrations (like RFID systems) work correctly.
If errors arise, address them before updating your live system.
5. Seek Professional Help (Optional but Recommended)
Downloading and Upgrading Koha involves technical steps that may be challenging if you’re not familiar with server commands or databases.
Not confident?
We at 2CQR can handle the entire downloading , customization and upgrading process for you.
Why Choose Us?
- Minimal downtime for your library
- Safe data migration with no loss
- Post-installation testing and support
Book a Koha demo with us to see how we can help!
Why Regular Koha Upgrades Matter:
- Security Patches: Updates fix vulnerabilities that could be exploited if left unpatched.
- New Features: Each release introduces features that improve library operations.
- Bug Fixes: Upgrades resolve known issues, ensuring smoother functionality.
- Compatibility: Stay aligned with other software integrations and operating systems.
- Better User Experience: Updated versions often improve speed, design, and usability.
If you're starting with Koha or planning a fresh installation, check out our detailed guide: How to Install Koha (Read Our Blog Here).