SLiMS
6.5#4 in library automationFree planFree planWebLinuxmacOSSelf-hosted
VisitSLiMS vs Surpass
What both publish
| Fact | SLiMS | Surpass |
|---|---|---|
| Circulation | Circulation features include loans, returns, reservations, quick returns, configurable loan rules, and membership management. | Surpass Cloud supports check-in, check-out, renewals, holds, barcode labels, and spine labels. |
| Purpose | SLiMS is a library management system designed to help libraries and librarians manage their work. | Surpass Cloud is library management software for school libraries, with tools for cataloging, circulation, and reporting. |
| Support | The maker points users to GitHub, issues, the changelog, and community discussion for support and learning. | The K–12 page describes its support team as U.S.-based and says it can answer questions, provide guidance, and advise on library practices. |
SLiMS plans
- SLiMS 9.8.0 Bulian D AceFree
Surpass plans
- Surpass Cloud Small Library (K-12)$960 a year
- Surpass Cloud Large Library (K-12)$1,440 a year
Pick SLiMS if…
SLiMS suits libraries and librarians seeking free library-management software with catalog, circulation, and inventory tools. Its source-install options fit teams able to provide the listed server requirements, while the portable bundle is limited to Windows.
Pick Surpass if…
Surpass suits school libraries that need cataloging, circulation, patron synchronization, and collection reporting. Its broader listed users include public libraries, churches, hospitals, and museums.