# Surpass Reviews 2026. Verified Reviews, Pros & Cons | Capterra

> Is Surpass the right Library Automation solution for you? Explore 129 verified user reviews from people in industries like yours to make a confident choice.

Source: https://www.capterra.com/p/10010536/Surpass/reviews

---

Surpass

4.8 (129)

Provider data verified by our Software Research team, and reviews moderated by our Reviews Verification team. [Learn more](https://www.capterra.com/our-story/)

* * *

Last updated April 28th, 2026

# Reviews of Surpass

Ease of use

4.7

Customer Service

4.9

## Pros and Cons in Reviews

MC

Mia C

Community Engagement TechnicianNon-Profit Organization Management, 2 - 10 employeesUsed the software for: Less than 6 months.

“What I like most about Surpass is its strong library management capabilities, security features, and customization options. While there is a learning curve, the system is intuitive and makes book cataloging, managing the library catalog, and tracking materials efficient and reliable.“

January 8, 2026

JG

Judy G

LibrarianLibraries, 11 - 50 employeesUsed the software for: More than 2 years.

“I only have one complaint...You can't make 13 digit barcodes...or I can't figure out how...“

January 13, 2026

MG

Marjorie G

Library VolunteerLibraries, 2 - 10 employeesUsed the software for: Less than 6 months.

“Overall, the system has greatly improved the way I manage and present our library’s collection, making it both user-friendly for patrons and practical for administrators like myself.“

September 3, 2025

TP

Ted P

Library Team leadReligious Institutions, 2 - 10 employeesUsed the software for: More than 2 years.

“Label printing is imperfect.“

February 8, 2025

DD

Donna D

Volunteer librarianLibraries, 2 - 10 employeesUsed the software for: 1-2 years.

“The web page is a nice addition for our patrons to search for titles within our listings and find out what is happening in our church library.“

March 4, 2025

Devendra Kumar S

Manager Information Technology and Services, 11 - 50 employeesUsed the software for: 1-2 years.

“One of the main cons of Surpass software is the lack of customization options. While the software is designed to be intuitive and easy to use, users may find that they are limited in the ability to customize their experience.“

January 24, 2023

SE

Sue E

librarianEducation Management, 11 - 50 employeesUsed the software for: 1-2 years.

“Our PK-8 private elementary school library used the non-cloud based Surpass system for 15-20 years. When we decided to move to a cloud based platform, we looked at two other vendors before deciding that Surpass was by far the best option.“

October 1, 2024

RC

Rachelle C

LibrarianLibraries, 51 - 200 employeesUsed the software for: More than 2 years.

“The hardest part to Surpass for me, is updating all the new students at the beginning of the school year. “

March 10, 2023

## Showing most helpful reviews

Showing 1-25 of 129 Reviews

Sort by:

Most Helpful

Rating

Company Size

Reviewer's Role

Length of Use

Frequency of Use

David N.  
Church Library Volunteer  
Religious Institutions  
Used the software for: Less than 6 months

### "Not Too Old to Learn"

June 23, 2024

5.0

Pros

It appears to be very easy to use. As soon as we received our login information we started work inputting our books into the system.

Cons

I haven't come across anything I don't like so far!

Alternatives considered

[Atriuum](https://www.capterra.com/p/8953/Atriuum/)

Reason for choosing Surpass

Price and the fact that I actually had someone respond the same day I requested information.

Review Source

Response from Surpass Software

July 1, 2024

Thanks for the review, David, and welcome to the Surpass family! We're happy that you're finding Surpass easy to use. I think you'll be happy when you discover that we're just as quick to respond after the sale as we were before!

MC

Mia C.  
Community Engagement Technician  
Non-Profit Organization Management  
Used the software for: Less than 6 months

### "A Flexible System That Improves with Experience"

January 8, 2026

5.0

My overall experience with has been positive. While there is a learning curve, the system is secure, customizable, and effective for library management, book cataloging, and tracking both circulating and non-circulating materials.

Pros

What I like most about is its strong library management capabilities, security features, and customization options. While there is a learning curve, the system is intuitive and makes book cataloging, managing the library catalog, and tracking materials efficient and reliable.

Cons

What I liked least about is the initial learning curve. While the system is robust and customizable, it can take time for new users to become comfortable navigating all features without additional guidance or training.

Switched from

[ResourceMate](https://www.capterra.com/p/40056/ResourceMate/)

Stronger security and access controls for staff roles and sensitive data

Review Source

Response from Surpass Software

January 9, 2026

Hi Mia! Thank you for taking the time to leave feedback for us. I'm happy to hear that you are satisfied with your Surpass experience and am especially glad to hear that you are finding it efficient reliable. We're doing our best to make it so! I appreciate your thoughts regarding the learning curve. We've put a lot of effort into growing our documentation and video libraries over the past couple of years and will continue to do so in order to make onboarding as simple as possible. If you have any ideas for content that you think new users would find helpful, please let us know!

AS

Amy S.  
Librarian  
Libraries  
Used the software for: 2+ years

### "Best option for our library!"

June 19, 2026

5.0

I have been using since 2019, and have always had a great experience with it. In that time there have been helpful updates, making my job easier, and the team at Surpass has helped me set up a system that works best for our school.

Pros

is very easy to use which means that I am able to keep my focus on the students, where it should be. Whenever I have a question, help is just a chat away - and everyone there is knowledgeable and friendly! I also love that I can send emails to students through Surpass, quickly catalog new books, run reports and personalize our opac.

Cons

I have no real complaints! I appreciate that when I have a request, or issue, I can put in a ticket.

Alternatives considered

[Follett Destiny Library Manager](https://www.capterra.com/p/8972/Destiny-Library-Manager/)

Reason for choosing Surpass

It is clear and simple to use, and I really appreciate the customer service. They are always so helpful.

Review Source

JR

Jill R.  
Teacher Librarian  
Libraries  
Used the software for: 6-12 months

### "Proceed with Caution"

January 19, 2022

3.0

Pros

I like the bright colors on the catalog. I also like that you can catalog books by just typing in the title and author.

Cons

The follow-up by the Help Desk is pretty much non-existent. The chat feature does not work so if you put in a ticket, you have to log in again to see if your question has been answered. I was hoping it would send me an email. It is also very slow when checking in books.

Reason for choosing Surpass

We thought it would be a smooth transition.

Review Source

Response from Surpass Software

January 22, 2022

Hi Jill. Our support is one of the things people like best about Surpass, so I'm disappointed and concerned that we didn't live up to your or our own expectations. We would like to find out why chat wasn't working for you and why you didn't receive email updates on your support ticket. Perhaps we don't have your correct email address or our email went to your spam folder. Please reach out to us. We want to make sure you have a great experience with Surpass.

BH

Brandi H.  
Librarian  
Education Management  
Used the software for: 2+ years

### "We love Surpass "

May 4, 2026

5.0

I've been using for 4 years and can count any issues I've had on one hand and they were always resolved that day. I think my catalog is extremely easy to manage. Using Surpass is the least stressful part of my day.

Pros

is super user friendly! After taking over the librarian roll at my school I learned the entire software within weeks!

Cons

If I could change anything I might add more detailed report options. Seeing some other librarians run reports on social media has made me slightly jealous.

Review Source

Response from Surpass Software

May 11, 2026

Hi Brandi, Thank you for taking the time to leave us a review. I'm happy to hear that you've found Surpass Cloud easy to use and that we've been able to help you get things sorted when needed! I think you'll be happy to hear that we're currently exploring some new report options to help libraries explore the impact they're having in their communities! If you have any specific ideas/requests, we would love to hear about them!

KH

Kathleen H.  
Coordinator Information and Resources  
Health, Wellness and Fitness  
Used the software for: 2+ years

### "Best Library Acquisition!"

April 4, 2025

5.0

has exceeded our expectations and needs. However, it's also simple to use and small enough to manage, and the customer service is immediate and personal. Very happy with our decision to go with Surpass!

Pros

Customer service is excellent. They respond within minutes to my questions, and are extremely helpful and patient. The OPAC looks amazing and is easy to use. It's also quick and simple to catalogue new entries. Perfect fit for our small library!

Cons

Sometimes having to type the exact title to find the book in the Resource list.

Alternatives considered

[Mandarin](https://www.capterra.com/p/29128/Mandarin/)[Lucidea Integrated Library Systems](https://www.capterra.com/p/157700/Lucidea-Integrated-Library-Systems/)

Reason for choosing Surpass

The simplicity and look of the OPAC, the fact that is was customizable. The overview and orientation we received from when considering the purchase.

Review Source

Response from Surpass Software

April 9, 2025

Hi Kathleen, Thank you for taking the time to leave us a review. We're so glad to hear that you are happy with Surpass and that you have enjoyed working with our customer service team! You indicated that the OPAC was one of the major selling points for you. We've done our best to create an inviting OPAC with rich and user-friendly features, so it's excellent to hear that you agree! We look forward to continuing to support your library!

MG

Marjorie G.  
Library Volunteer  
Libraries  
Used the software for: Less than 6 months

### "Five stars! Couldn't be happier!"

September 3, 2025

5.0

Overall, the system has greatly improved the way I manage and present our library’s collection, making it both user-friendly for patrons and practical for administrators like myself.

Pros

I’ve had a very positive experience working with as an administrator. The process of inputting new resources is straightforward and efficient, with clear fields and options that make organizing materials simple. I especially appreciate the flexibility in customizing records, which allows me to highlight important details and ensure users can easily locate what they need. Navigating around the site is smooth and intuitive—the menus are well-structured, and search features are responsive and accurate.

Cons

There is nothing so far that I have not liked about . It has been a learning curve to navigate around the site, so expect to need some time initially.

Alternatives considered

[TinyCat](https://www.capterra.com/p/268527/TinyCat/)

Reason for choosing Surpass

We liked the customer service and the ease of using the product.

Switched from

[ResourceMate](https://www.capterra.com/p/40056/ResourceMate/)

We were looking for a cloud based system for our library.

Review Source

Response from Surpass Software

January 12, 2026

Hello Marjorie, Thank you for taking the time to review Surpass and share your experience. We work hard to bring our librarians a system that is both efficient and user-friendly, so it's exciting to hear that you have observed those qualities!

KH

Kylie H.  
Media Specialist  
Libraries  
Used the software for: Less than 6 months

### "Worth Every Penny"

January 9, 2026

5.0

So far, our small library has utilized the customization of the website layout especially for the cost of your system.

Pros

We appreciate how user friendly is for patrons and also our library staff. Our library catalog was easily uploaded into the Surplus system.

Cons

Honestly at this time has worked very well for our library needs. Customer service has been a huge help for our library.

Alternatives considered

[Alexandria](https://www.capterra.com/p/27788/Alexandria/)

Reason for choosing Surpass

We chose for easy use, website connection to the catalog, and price.

Review Source

DD

Donna D.  
Volunteer librarian  
Libraries  
Used the software for: 1-2 years

### "Excellent for our Church library!"

March 4, 2025

5.0

Exceptional customer service - \[sensitive content hidden\] has been hands on to help with questions and figuring out even the smallest of details to make the system work for our needs.

Pros

Easy to manuever site and implement our catalog. The web page is a nice addition for our patrons to search for titles within our listings and find out what is happening in our church library.

Cons

N/A. Cloud has thought through everything to make this an excellent catalog for our use.

Switched from

[ResourceMate](https://www.capterra.com/p/40056/ResourceMate/)

A storm took out our system and we lost our entire catalog. In researching for new system, the cloud was very appealing and other features made this the best choice for us.

Review Source

Response from Surpass Software

March 6, 2025

Hi Donna, We're happy to hear that you are enjoying Surpass Cloud! I'm so glad that you are finding the program easy to use and that your patrons are enjoying the public catalog. I'm further pleased to hear that our support team has been so helpful in getting you adjusted to Surpass. Please don't hesitate to reach out as you continue getting settled. Thank you for taking the time to share your experience!

MB

Mary B.  
Librarian  
Education Management  
Used the software for: 2+ years

### "Five Star Customer Service"

January 8, 2026

5.0

works well for our business and whenever there is a hiccup it is a pleasure to reach out and work with Customer Service.

Pros

My favorite thing about is actually the Customer Service. They have been quick, kind, empathetic and very positive every time I have reached out. This is very, very much appreciated.

Cons

There are a few things I would like to tailor to our specific office that I've been told are not possible, like removing due dates from the receipts.

Review Source

Response from Surpass Software

January 12, 2026

Hello Mary, Thank you for taking the time to share your thoughts on Surpass. We are happy to hear that you have found our customer service team responsive and supportive. I believe I can speak for the whole team when I say we're all happy to be here and that we love supporting our libraries! I appreciate your honesty regarding the customizability options. We've tried hard to balance user-friendliness with customizability -- and we base most of our changes off of feedback from current clients. If we gather that more libraries would like to have the option to remove due dates from receipts, we'll certainly look at making that an option. In the meantime, I would recommend submitting a Wish List ticket so that if that option is ever added, you'll be the first to know!

EP

Edward P.  
Digital Library Administrator  
Libraries  
Used the software for: 6-12 months

### "Powerful Library Catalog"

December 13, 2024

5.0

customer service and sales representatives have been extremely responsive and helpful. They clearly understand their complex software and are more than willing to resolve any issue that arises. They have a litany of YouTube videos that cover many of their features of their software, they are usually only about 3 minutes each making them easy to watch

Pros

catalog is easy to use and is as good as far more expensive library systems.

Cons

It does not show you one copy of a multivolume set but shows the user all copies as separate entries. I would like to see this changed to show the user only one book but with a list of all the volumes.

Review Source

Response from Surpass Software

December 16, 2024

Hi Edward, Thank you for taking the time to review our software. We greatly appreciate your feedback and are happy to hear that you find our software easy to use and our team knowledgeable. We also appreciate your critique of the volume management process and we will continue looking into this!

NB

Nicola B.  
Librarian  
Education Management  
Used the software for: 2+ years

### "Great Job....."

January 21, 2025

5.0

My overall experience has been great..It is very easy to use

Pros

is very easy to use ....everything is clearly marked

Cons

there is nothing that I dislike about

Review Source

Response from Surpass Software

January 23, 2025

Hi Nicola, Thank you for taking the time to leave Surpass a review. We are always happy to hear feedback and are pleased that you have found our software so easy to use. That's one of our top priorities! We look forward to continuing to serve you.

DS

Darlene S.  
Resident Librarian  
Individual & Family Services  
Used the software for: Less than 6 months

### "Surpass excels"

November 4, 2024

5.0

I would rate it a 10 on a scale of 1-10. We reviewed 49 systems before making a final decision to go with . Once we saw it, there was no question.

Pros

Ease of use! Timely and detailed response form Knowledge experts!

Cons

We can't get it operational fast enough - no fault of . The process is clearly defined.

Review Source

Response from Surpass Software

November 20, 2024

Hello Darlene! Thank you for taking the time to leave us such a wonderful review. We greatly appreciate your honest feedback and are happy to hear that Surpass has met your needs. We're especially proud to hear that we were your top choice after such thorough research! We look forward to continuing to serve you and your library!

KB

Kristen B.  
Media Aide  
Education Management  
Used the software for: Less than 6 months

### "Media Aide"

August 28, 2024

5.0

Great. system, user friendly, many option for assistance with program \\.

Pros

Able to import entire class list into the system, \[sensitive content hidden\] from technical support was a big help.

Cons

Still learning the system and wish there was a new user training already set up.

Review Source

Response from Surpass Software

September 10, 2024

Hi Kristen, Thank you for taking the time to leave us a review. I'm happy to hear that you are enjoying the program and that you are finding it user friendly. We certainly do our best to make it so! You mentioned that you wish there was a new user training. There is a Getting Started section available in our documentation that I think you will find quite helpful! As always, let our team know if you need anything and welcome to the Surpass family!

KK

Kristy K.  
Director of Libraries  
Libraries  
Used the software for: 2+ years

### "Stellar Service/Outstanding Product"

May 20, 2022

5.0

Top-notch customer service! I’m always amazed at all quickly they adjust or correct any issues that I bring to them.

Pros

I think I appreciate most about Cloud is how easy it is for my volunteers and students to sit down and be able to navigate the system with very little, if any, training at all. It is the most user-driven system I’ve ever used.

Cons

The only feature that could be improved is the patron import. We have had a bit of difficulty with students who are in a grade that is not designated within their categories. This means hand keying in few of them after the upload.

Alternatives considered

[Follett Destiny Library Manager](https://www.capterra.com/p/8972/Destiny-Library-Manager/)

Reason for choosing Surpass

Customer service and design.

Review Source

Response from Surpass Software

May 23, 2022

Thanks for your review, Kristy! We're delighted that your volunteers and patrons are finding Surpass Cloud easy to use. Please let us know if we can help with your patron import.

CG

Cathy G.  
School librarian  
Primary/Secondary Education  
Used the software for: 2+ years

### "Customer service is key!"

September 8, 2021

5.0

My experience with has been very positive.

Pros

We began using the Cloud-based about a year ago. It's works well for our mid-size (15,000 book) library. Once I became familiar with its capabilities, I enjoyed its speed and accuracy. We've had a few glitches and a bit of a learning curve on my part, but Surpass customer support has been knowledgeable and supportive in getting through each issue. They are professional, quick to respond, and they definitely know their stuff. My favorite feature is the ability to customize our own site for our school with text and photos. I also like the ability to communicate with our students' families via email through Surpass. The Dashboard feature is also a great way to start the day with a synopsis of the library.

Cons

Showing my age here but -- I wish there was a hard copy user's manual of Cloud's capabilities. I used the manual/binder all the time for the previous version, making notes on annual processes, etc. I really miss that old binder!

Reason for choosing Surpass

It was in place when I arrived. I have not considered changing.

Review Source

Response from Surpass Software

September 9, 2021

Thanks Cathy! We're so happy that you're having a good experience with Surpass and with our support. I am nostalgic for the the old paper manuals, too. I still have a copy of the first one from 1985 (it was called Melvil back then)! As you have probably noticed, there are enhancements and new features added to Surpass Cloud constantly. Paper manuals couldn't keep up with the pace! And, of course, paper manuals couldn't take you directly to the page relevant to where you are in the software with a click of the mouse, as the online documentation does.

RA

Ronald A.  
librarian  
Education Management  
Used the software for: 2+ years

### "Surpass Cloud is wonderful, as is Surpass Support."

August 20, 2021

5.0

Support has always treated me well. \[SENSITIVE CONTENT\] and the tech department are easy to talk with, and they have implemented suggestions I have made the same day. For example, I asked for the ability to print receipts when students pay a fine. This was implemented by D\[SENSITIVE CONTENT\]the same day. This ability to make suggestions, and have the suggestions implemented, is one of the best features of Surpass Cloud.

Pros

The software is easy for me to use, and easy for my assistants to use. \[SENSITIVE CONTENT\] are always happy to help me when I email or call.

Cons

There is nothing about Cloud I do not like!

Review Source

Response from Surpass Software

August 24, 2021

We are thrilled that you're enjoying using Surpass Cloud in your library. Since it's humble beginnings 36 years ago, the most important "software designers" on our team have been the people who use it everyday in managing their libraries. Keep those great ideas and suggestions coming! We listen!

AF

Ana F.  
Learning Community Coordinator  
Primary/Secondary Education  
Used the software for: 1-2 years

### "Creation Village World School "

March 20, 2024

5.0

Training was easy conducted by a knowledgeable team. In addition, support there are lots of resources on YouTube with step-by-step short tutorials. Very helpful. Technicians are available online and you have a response in matter of minutes. They make it easy for you. I highly recommend Software!

Pros

program itself is very good, modern, complex and easy to use. Covers all areas of a school library, easy to access, to use and self-explanatory. Truely I cannot say enough good things about Surpass program. Also Surpass software comes with a price tag that small private schools can afford.

Cons

I really cannot think of anything negative about it.

Review Source

Response from Surpass Software

March 22, 2024

Hi Ana, Thank you for taking the time to leave a review. We're happy to hear that your start-up process went smoothly and that you found our tutorials helpful! We're continually striving to make this process as easy as possible, so we are thrilled to hear about your experience!

LK

Liisa K.  
Librarian  
Higher Education  
Used the software for: 2+ years

### "Surpass Easy to Use"

February 2, 2022

5.0

Pros

software is easy to use to do the tasks required for cataloging, circulation, fee collection, getting reports, etc.

Cons

At times our simple search results have been strange, but with the recent fix of some broken links, it is working much better.

Review Source

Response from Surpass Software

February 3, 2022

Thank you for taking the time to share your experience with Surpass, Liisa! We're so happy that it's working well for you in your library. We're always here to help!

DS

Dee S.  
Tech Coordinator  
Education Management  
Used the software for: 2+ years

### "Surpass 2022-2023"

June 7, 2023

5.0

It was a great year with them.

Pros

Ease of use and excellent customer support!!

Cons

I have one need that they don't do at this time...but maybe in the future!!! They try to work hard to meet the customers needs!!

Review Source

Response from Surpass Software

July 24, 2023

Thanks for your review, Dee! We're all about easy of use and excellent customer support! Looking forward to more great years with you and Surpass!

NI

Natalia I.  
Librarian  
Education Management  
Used the software for: 1-2 years

### "Help with patrons import"

February 9, 2024

5.0

I think our Theatre Department is happy with .

Pros

I loved Naomi's customer service. She is very professional, responded in a timely manner and was very helpful.

Cons

Minor thing: excel file import specifics

Review Source

Response from Surpass Software

February 29, 2024

Thanks for the positive feedback, Natalia! Our support folks are the best!

CO

Charles O.  
Operations Analyst  
Law Enforcement  
Used the software for: 1-2 years

### "Used for correctional library."

February 3, 2022

5.0

Pros

the program is very organized and user-friendly.

Cons

The backup was a little confusing at first. However, once I had completed it via the walkthrough it almost came naturally.

Review Source

Response from Surpass Software

February 4, 2022

Thanks for taking the time to write a review, Charles. Organized and friendly is always our design goal.

mF

mohammed F.  
mangar  
Accounting  
Used the software for: Less than 6 months

### "I interested"

May 5, 2023

4.0

They are mostly good, very good, and it is important to deal with them

Pros

The best team, platform and collaborative benefits for the community

Cons

It is mostly good and needs more development in the tests

Review Source

Response from Surpass Software

July 24, 2023

Thanks for your review, Mohammed! We also think we have the best team! 🙂

CC

Consuella C.  
Dean of Academics  
Education Management  
Used the software for: Less than 6 months

### "Surpass Meets the Mark"

December 1, 2021

5.0

has a cadre of professional who ensure you have the products and services you need along with support when you need it.

Pros

is an incredible software that is easy to use. The setup makes the organization and tracking of materials very easy to do. In addition, the customer service is amazing. When you have an issue, they do not give up until there is a solution you are satisfied with.

Cons

If you do not have the cloud package, set-up can be challenging, but it was worth the wait and again, the customer support team works with you every step of the way.

Reason for choosing Surpass

Not applicable

Review Source

Response from Surpass Software

December 3, 2021

Thank you for your review, Consuella! We're delighted that you're pleased with Surpass and with our service!

RA

Richard A.  
Librarian  
Religious Institutions  
Used the software for: 1-2 years

### "A request above and beyond ..."

July 27, 2020

5.0

Very helpful.

Pros

I asked \[SENSITIVE CONTENT HIDDEN\] if he could produce a report listing all those call numbers which I had miscatalogued. After I explained to him what I had done, he immediately drew upon his knowledge of the software to suggest various approaches and we achieved my desired goal.

Cons

Not too much yet. I don't know what else to write because I keep coming back to this box when I hit submit.

Reason for choosing Surpass

I didn't choose it. My predecessor did.

Review Source

## Send me user reviews about this product

### Fill out the form and we'll send a list of the top-rated software based on real user reviews directly to your inbox.

Talk to a Capterra advisor for free and get results within 15 minutes.