LibStack
6.9#3 in school library management softwareAndroidiOSWeb
VisitLibStack vs Pinakes
What both publish
| Fact | LibStack | Pinakes |
|---|---|---|
| Cataloging | Books can be added through ISBN lookup with metadata or CSV/Excel bulk import. | Cataloging includes multi-copy records, physical books and digital titles, Dewey classification, CSV and LibraryThing TSV imports, and barcode generation. |
| Circulation | Staff can issue and return books using two scans from any smartphone camera without dedicated barcode hardware. | The loan workflow supports requests, approvals, checkout, renewals, returns, configurable due dates, and FIFO reservation queues. |
| Notifications | LibStack sends WhatsApp and SMS due-date reminders and can escalate overdue alerts to parents for school libraries. | Automatic email notifications cover registrations, loan confirmations, approaching due dates, overdue items, and available reservations; email can use PHP mail() or SMTP. |
| Purpose | LibStack provides cloud-based library management software for schools, colleges, and universities. | Pinakes is a self-hosted integrated library system for schools, municipalities, and private collections. |
| Security | The maker says institution data is isolated and encrypted in transit via HTTPS/TLS, and that users can export their data. | The README lists CSRF protections, security headers, and an updater that backs up the database, protects paths such as uploads, and can roll back on error. |
LibStack plans
- College—
- School—
- UniversityPriced on request
Pinakes plans
- PinakesFree
Pick LibStack if…
It suits educational institutions that want to manage cataloging, circulation, reminders, and reporting across one or more libraries. Its QR workflows may be useful for libraries issuing books from phones or tablets without dedicated barcode hardware.
Pick Pinakes if…
Pinakes suits schools, municipalities, and private collections that want to host library cataloging and circulation software. It may also fit libraries that need an Android companion app or digital collection features.