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FOLIO

Open Library Foundation
United States of America
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About

Launched: 2021
Record Updated: Dec 09, 2025
Integrated Library System (ILS) or Library Services Platform (LSP)
FOLIO is an open source Library Services Platform (LSP). The platform supports core functionality for the management of print and electronic resources. Built natively for the cloud, FOLIO uses a modern microservices architecture to allow libraries to choose applications they need. As a result, FOLIO moves beyond the traditional integrated library system, allowing anyone to freely build on the platform’s core functionality or to extend it through the development of applications that deliver new services.

Mission

The community directs the development of FOLIO as an open source platform for libraries that provides choice and protection from vendor lock-in. Its modular, adaptable architecture provides a stable platform to meet current needs while being forward-thinking, empowering libraries to lead innovation, respond to change, and shape their digital futures.

Key Achievements

FOLIO now has hundreds of adopters worldwide, ranging from small libraries with less than one staff member to the world's largest library. The thriving community is supported by multiple software development firms and hosting companies, as well as a growing number of self-hosted sites.

Technical Attributes

Maintenance Status

Actively Maintained

Open Code Repository

Implemented
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Technical Documentation

Implemented
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Code License

Implemented
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Open Product Roadmap

Implemented
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Technical Attribute Statements

Programming Languages

  • java

Technology Readiness Level

  • Actual system proven in operational environment

Code Licenses Used

  • Apache License, Version 2.0

Standards

Metadata

  • MARC
  • OAI-PMH

Hosting Options

  • Through third party vendor only

Service Providers

https://folio.org/community/vendors/

Community Engagement

Code of Conduct

Implemented
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Community Engagement

Implemented
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Community Statements

User Contribution Pathways

  • Contribute funds
  • Contribute to code
  • Contribute to documentation
  • Contribute to education or training
  • Contribute to governance
  • Contribute to user research or user testing
  • Contribute to working groups or interest groups

Community Engagement Activities

  • Interest, working, user, or advisory groups
  • Mailing lists and discussion forums (including Slack)
  • Social media

Policies & Governance

Governance Summary

FOLIO is a community member project of the Open Library Foundation. FOLIO is governed by three councils filled by elected Members of the community.

Policies

Bylaws

Implemented
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Privacy Policy

Implemented
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Governance Records

Implemented
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Governance Structure & Processes

Implemented
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Policy Statements

Board Structure

  • Advisory board or steering committee

Community Governance

  • Formal

Additional Information

Organizational History

https://folio.org/about/

Organizational Structure

Business or Ownership Model

Fiscal sponsorship (non-profit)

Full-time Staff

0

Volunteers

More than 20

Current Affiliations

Please see https://folio.org/community/members/

Funding

Primary Funding Source

  • Contributions

Funding Needs

The FOLIO community is currently seeking funding to support critical community operations (such as hosting development and testing environments, release management, and community support).
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