LibKi – computer reservation and time management system

LibKi is a computer reservation and session management system intended for libraries and other locations providing public access to shared computers.

Public computers need controls that differ from those used on personal workstations. Libraries may need to limit session duration, manage queues, prevent unauthorised access and ensure that available machines are distributed fairly among patrons.

LibKi provides a central management service with client software running on the computers being controlled. Patrons can access computers according to the library’s reservation policies, while administrators manage sessions through a browser-based interface.

The system supports both advance bookings and walk-up access, allowing organisations to accommodate different approaches to public computing.

LibKi also supports integration with library systems through SIP2 authentication. This makes it possible to associate computer access with existing patron accounts instead of maintaining an entirely separate authentication process.

This is free and open source software.

Key Features

• Manage multiple public access computers from a central server.
• Provide browser-based administration of computers and patron sessions.
• Allow patrons to reserve computers in advance.
• Support walk-up access without prior reservations.
• Configure time allowances for individual users.
• Display remaining session time on managed computers.
• Monitor computer occupancy and availability.
• Notify users when computers become available.
• Manage patron accounts and access restrictions.
• Use SIP2 authentication with compatible library systems.
• Support single sign-on integration with Koha.
• Allow administrators to control and terminate sessions.
• Configure access policies to suit different computer groups.
• Support a centralised deployment serving multiple client computers.

Website: libki.org
Support:
Developer: Libki development community
License: GNU Affero General Public License v3.0 (server); GNU General Public License v3.0 (client)

Libki is written in C++. Learn C++ with our recommended free books and free tutorials.

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