--- title: "Surpass Reviews 2026. Verified Reviews, Pros & Cons | Capterra" description: "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_url: "https://www.capterra.com/p/10010536/Surpass/reviews/" page_type: "reviews" language: "en" --- 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 August 26th, 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 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 TP Ted P Library Team leadReligious Institutions, 2 - 10 employeesUsed the software for: More than 2 years. “Label printing is imperfect.“ February 8, 2025 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 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 BH Brandi H LibrarianEducation Management, 201 - 500 employeesUsed the software for: More than 2 years. “I've been using Surpass for 4 years and can count any issues I've had on one hand and they were always resolved that day.“ May 4, 2026 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 Surpass 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 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. Cons What I liked least about Surpass 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! 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. 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 Surpass 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 Surpass 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 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 Surpass 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 Surpass 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 Surpass 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 Surpass. 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 Surpass is for patrons and also our library staff. Our library catalog was easily uploaded into the Surplus system. Cons Honestly at this time Surpass 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 Surpass for easy use, website connection to the catalog, and price. Review Source MB Mary B. Librarian Education Management Used the software for: 2+ years ### "Five Star Customer Service" January 8, 2026 5.0 Surpass 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 Surpass 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! BH Brandi H. Librarian Education Management Used the software for: 2+ years ### "We love Surpass " May 4, 2026 5.0 I've been using Surpass 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 Surpass 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! AD Annika D. Managing Librarian Music Used the software for: 2+ years ### "Great experience for smaller library collection" January 13, 2026 5.0 Surpass has been easy to use, has great customer service, and offers a great value that fits within my organization's budget. Pros We have a relatively basic version of Surpass, and it's an absolutely great value for our needs. The customer service is excellent and is the primary reason I would recommend this software to others; I always know that help is just an email or a phone call away. Cons The only thing that comes to mind is that the user interface in the basic version we use is visually a bit dated, but this has no impact on functionality. Review Source BT Brenda T. Volunteer Religious Institutions Used the software for: Less than 6 months ### "Barcode issue" June 30, 2025 5.0 Professional, prompt, kind, helpful. \[sensitive content hidden\] was great. Answer in minutes. The online chat was great. I felt heard and cared for. Pros Promptness of support and an answer in minutes! The online support was perfect and prompt. \[sensitive content hidden\] was kind and knowledgeable. Cons I do not have anything that I disliked. The service is great and the tech support is phenomenal. I would have left this blank because I have nothing that I didn’t like. Review Source Response from Surpass Software July 1, 2025 Hi Brenda, Thank you for taking the time to tell us about your barcode issue. Our team works hard to jump on any questions or issues so that you can get on with your day. I'm so glad to hear that you had such a good support experience with us! It was a pleasure working with you as well! We look forward to continuing to support you and your library. 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 Surpass is very easy to use ....everything is clearly marked Cons there is nothing that I dislike about Surpass 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 Surpass. Once we saw it, there was no question. Pros Ease of use! Timely and detailed response form Surpass Knowledge experts! Cons We can't get it operational fast enough - no fault of Surpass. 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! NT Nathan T. Computer Specialist Education Management Used the software for: Less than 6 months ### "Sanity Saving Software" August 16, 2022 5.0 Far better than my expectations. From the initial chat on their website, to the detail found on the website, to the support both before the sale and after the sale. They have been far better than I could have anticipated. Pros The most important feature of any software, the truest selling point for me was the ability to import MARC records from ancient library software (circa 2006). I had put off upgrading library software for so long and with a collection of over 10,000 copies I was most worried about losing that data. The software/hardware combination of the old system was on its last legs, and the initial software developer was very slow to respond to upgrading to their newer system. With Surpass they gave me a demo of which I tested their import feature and it was extremely easy to import everything I intended without the need for support on that feature. Second most important feature was they still sell the ability for a local installation. I am not too keen on cloud-based SaaS solutions. The third real selling point was the service; and that was true even from before the sale, but has continued after the sale as well. The level of service has blown my mind away. Even nit-picky type of things I have asked they have resolved. Cons Honestly the least liked is that some features display along the bottom of the software, not where I expect to find tabs for options. \[Note: I learn new software by clicking through menus/options and testing things.\] That, and few other things make the software feel a little clunky, maybe utilitarian. But it does what I need, and I am not picky on UI components once everything is setup and I know how to work it. Reason for choosing Surpass I also Googled other software but the vast majority of them were cloud-based, and I didn't spend too much time looking at those. The initial Google result included a page that listed Surpass along with others and the intro paragraph for Surpass sounded the most likely to import my data and still have local install. With Follett they provided an online conference call type demo (I couldn't test drive it myself, only watch); they did verify I could import the data I intended to; but then they didn't follow up for a very long time with so much as a price quote. The irony is by the time they did provide the price quote I was already switched to Surpass; and I didn't even try to switch for over a year. So why the switch? Responsiveness, Local install, test drive option, ease of data import, excellent support before \[and after\] the sale. Review Source Response from Surpass Software August 23, 2022 Thanks for your review, Nathan! While Surpass Cloud is our most-popular option, Surpass for Windows continues to shine! We're delighted that we have "blown your mind" with our level of service. That's our goal! vS victoria S. Teachers, Director Education Management Used the software for: 2+ years ### "Surpass is huge a value " July 21, 2023 5.0 The overall experience has been wonderful. We could not function to the highly organized level without Surpass. It saves us time & money. The reporting options are extremely helpful, finding what information Is needed so quickly has added positive productivity. Pros That I can use it from other devices.The reporting systemFinding students quickly Cons Training, I have not taken the time needed to fully understand all that Surpass does or how it all works. I would like a training map, that shows me how to train and in what order, from the basics and on. Reason for choosing Surpass This is the system TECTA used when I started my position. Review Source Response from Surpass Software July 24, 2023 Thanks for your review, Victoria! We're happy that Surpass is helping you keep your library organized and serving your patrons. For training, you might want to check out the videos on the Surpass YouTube channel. The Getting Started with Surpass Cloud, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gzgbAvFdgzY, is a great place to jump in. Of course, Surpass Support is always here for you if you need guidance! 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 Surpass 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 Surpass 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 Surpass Software! Pros Surpass 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 Surpass 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! 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! MS Mary S. Media Clerk Libraries Used the software for: 2+ years ### "Surpass " February 16, 2022 5.0 Whenever I have a problem or issue the staff at Surpass is wonderful! Always friendly and professional. Pros Very user friendly and if you happen to have an issue their customer service is a call away! Cons There is nothing I can think of that I'd change. Review Source Response from Surpass Software February 17, 2022 Thanks for your glowing review, Mary! You're making us blush! 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 Surpass has a cadre of professional who ensure you have the products and services you need along with support when you need it. Pros Surpass 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.