About Litcat

What it is

Litcat is a desktop GUI application built on top of Compendium, an open-source library catalog and circulation engine. Compendium handles the database layer, metadata lookups, and import/export formats. Litcat wraps it in a native desktop application that runs on Mac, Windows, and Linux, with a UI designed around two real use cases: cataloging a home book collection and running circulation in a small classroom library.

All library data is stored in a SQLite database on your computer. There is no cloud sync, no account required to use the app, and no telemetry. Your catalog belongs to you.

Who built it

Litcat is developed and maintained by a single developer. It started as a personal tool for managing a home library and grew into something worth sharing after realizing that most library software either targets large institutions or requires running a web server. Litcat is the in-between: desktop-native, offline-first, and small enough to be useful without a manual.

Licensing

Litcat is free to use up to 100 books and 15 patrons. The free tier is not a trial — it doesn't expire and doesn't nag you to upgrade. Litcat Pro removes those limits and adds premium import adapters and (soon) reports and shelf labels. See the feature comparison on the homepage.