Alma Mobile 2 vs EBSCO FOLIO Tools
Price, ratings, monetisation and update history for both apps, side by side — with what reviewers say about each.
Alma Mobile 2
Access task lists and perform fulfillment activities remotely within library stacks. This app reduces paper lists and increases productivity by enabling staff to manage library operations on the go. It supports barcode scanning and item tracking.
- Access task lists remotely
- Perform fulfillment activities
- Filter pick lists
- Scan items for destination
- Track item usage
- Barcode scanning via camera
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Take Alma into the library stacks instead of bringing the library stacks to your desk! The Alma Mobile app allows you to access task lists and perform fulfillment activities while away from the library service desk. Using Alma on your mobile device reduces paper lists and increases your productivity by allowing you to roam throughout the library with Alma at your side. Alma Mobile includes the following features: • Review the Pick from Shelf list for one or more library locations • Filter the list by request date, location, call number, or destination • Scan items to see where they need to go • Track usage of items left on library tables and shelves • Barcode scanning via the device’s built-in camera as well as portable wireless barcode scanners You will need your system’s URL and your user login to access your library system via Alma Mobile. Built on Ex Libris’ Alma library services platform, Alma Mobile is targeted for use by public and technical services staff in academic and research library environments. Alma Mobile works alongside the Alma desktop app, which continues to provide functionality for traditional library operations. EULA: https://knowledge.exlibrisgroup.com/Alma/Product_Materials/Licenses/Alma_Mobile_EULA
EBSCO FOLIO Tools
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EBSCO FOLIO Tools, is a mobile app designed to bring library management into the digital age. EBSCO FOLIO Tools, available in 33 languages, enable librarians to maintain seamless library operations, even without an active internet connection, with its Offline Circulation feature. This allows library staff to perform key functions such as check-in, check-out, and renewals in offline environments, ensuring uninterrupted service.
Screenshots
Verdict
The clearest difference is update cadence: EBSCO FOLIO Tools at every 2 months against Alma Mobile 2's every 3 months. On price, ads, in-app purchases and device support there is nothing between them.
Scored on Price · Rating · Positive reviews · Number of ratings · Update frequency · Ads · In-app purchases · Monetization · Best chart rank · Devices · Requires iOS
Both are free to download. Neither carries in-app purchases, so what you see is what you pay.
Alma Mobile 2 ships an update every 3 months, EBSCO FOLIO Tools every 2 months. The most recent releases landed on October 14, 2026 and October 17, 2026 respectively.
| Parameter | Alma Mobile 2 | EBSCO FOLIO Tools |
|---|---|---|
| Price | Free | Free |
| Rating | 1.0 (2 ratings) — better | — |
| Positive reviews | 0.0% of reviews | — |
| Number of ratings | 2 — better | — |
| Update frequency | Every 3 months | Every 2 months — better |
| Ads | No | No |
| In-app purchases | No | No |
| Monetization | Free | — |
| Devices | iPhone, iPad, iPod | iPhone, iPad, iPod |
| Requires iOS | 15.0 | 14.0 — better |
| Further details — not scored | ||
| Size | 19 MB | 66 MB |
| Age rating | 4+ | 17+ |
| Developer | Ex Libris LTD | EBSCO Publishing |
In-app purchases
Alma Mobile 2
No in-app purchases
EBSCO FOLIO Tools
No in-app purchases









