ISSN 2311-3898 Caribbean Library Journal Volume 6, 2021 1 Koha Open-Source Library Management System: The University of Guyana Library’s Experience Gwyneth George University Librarian University of Guyana Library, University of Guyana, Turkeyen Campus, Guyana Simone Bernard Deputy University Librarian (Ag.) University of Guyana Library, University of Guyana, Turkeyen, Guyana Somattie Sayrange Senior Assistant Librarian Berbice Campus Library, University of Guyana, Berbice, Guyana Abstract As a consequence of all the technological advances taking place, and the need to remain relevant, the University of Guyana Library was forced to reconsider its approach to automation. In 2007, after careful research, it adopted Koha, an open-source software to automate its services. Koha is the first open-source software for library management systems and is now in use worldwide. This was the first implementation of Koha in Guyana. This study describes the selection process that led to the implementation of Koha 3.8 LMS, as well as highlights the challenges, issues and benefits derived. It is hoped that the experience from this venture into the use of open- source software will influence other libraries in Guyana and regionally. The methodology used for collecting and analyzing the data was qualitative and descriptive in nature adapting the purposive sampling technique to select the study sample. The survey design was adopted to elicit the experiences of 31 staff and 30 students. The results indicated that Koha has a suite of features that allows flexibility for customization. The use of the software was described as economical, time-saving, and having the ability to promote collaboration. Automating the University of Guyana Library with Koha resulted in easier access to resources for patrons. While there is no heavy upfront cost for the software there must be an institutional commitment to offset expenses related to upgrades, equipment and staff training. Keywords: automation in libraries, Caribbean Area, computer technologies, integrated library system, Koha, library management system, open-source software, University of Guyana Library. Introduction Prior to automation, library tasks were performed manually and independently from one another. The use of the punch card system by the University of Texas in 1936 to manage library circulation was one of the first attempts at mechanization in libraries. Thereafter, and particularly after the 1960s, the library and information science landscape was significantly influenced by an