CollectionSpace
CollectionSpace: A standards-based system for collection records, workflows and public browsing. Ranked #2 of 11 in Museum Software by our editors (8.2/10); pricing: Free plan · pricing on request; best for museums seeking open-source, standards-based software.
At a glance
- Editor score8.2 / 10
- PricingFree plan · pricing on request
- Best forMuseums seeking open-source, standards-based software
- Free planYes
- Collection catalogingYes
- Founded2010
- Facts checked24 Sep 2026
Where it wins
- SPECTRUM-based records support cataloging and collection procedures.
- Workflows cover loans, exhibitions, accession and deaccession.
- Choose Lyrasis-managed cloud hosting or install it on your own infrastructure.
Where it doesn't
- Lyrasis-hosted pricing is quote-based and depends on object-record count.
- Self-hosting requires institutions to install the software on their infrastructure.
- Optional contributor tiers and hosting fees apply.
Our verdict on CollectionSpace
CollectionSpace is a web-based, open-source collections information management system for museums and other collecting organizations. It suits teams that need structured collection records alongside workflows for cataloging, loans, exhibitions, inventory, accession and deaccession. Its SPECTRUM-based object and procedure records provide the standards-oriented foundation, while profiles address collection types including anthropology, fine art, history, natural history and public art. Museums, universities and historical societies are among the organizations it serves.
CollectionSpace extends beyond internal cataloging with a Public Browser for publishing objects and images, digital-asset storage for images, documents, audio and video, and a native REST API. CSV batch importing and advanced search with CSV export support moving and finding records. Rights-management fields are included for fine-art collections. Jaspersoft and WordPress are named integrations, and the web-based system can be deployed through Lyrasis-managed cloud hosting or installed on an institution's own infrastructure. Those options make it relevant across different operating preferences, but institutions should weigh self-hosting against managed service needs.
The software is freely available for self-hosting, while optional contributor tiers and hosting fees apply. According to Lyrasis' pricing information, hosted service is quote-based and depends on the number of object records, so institutions should request a quote to assess that option. Support channels include email, ticketing, community and documentation; SSO/SAML is listed. CollectionSpace is a strong fit for museums prioritizing open source, standards-based records and broad collection workflows. Organizations seeking a published fixed hosting price or a system without local installation responsibilities should compare alternatives before choosing.
CollectionSpace pricing
CollectionSpace fact sheet
| Free plan | Yes |
|---|---|
| Paid from | Not verified |
| Collection cataloging | Yes |
| Loan management | Yes |
| Exhibition management | Yes |
| Rights tracking | Yes |
| Public collections access | Yes |
| Deployment | Both |
| Deployment | Cloud, Self-hosted |
| Platforms | Web |
| Compliance & security | SSO/SAML |
| Support | Email, Tickets, Community, Docs |
| Built for | Small business, Mid-market, Enterprise (editorial estimate) |
| Integrations | 2 integrations: Jaspersoft, WordPress |
| Pricing | Free plan · pricing on request (source) |
| Website | collectionspace.org |
| Facts checked | 24 Sep 2026 |
CollectionSpace integrations
CollectionSpace lists 2 integrations on its own site.
- Jaspersoft
- WordPress
Alternatives to CollectionSpace
- Axiell CollectionsBroad collection workflows with online publishing, available cloud-hosted or self-hosted.9.0
- CatalogItA broad museum collections platform with a useful free tier and scalable paid plans.8.2
- TMS CollectionsA broad collections system for museums managing objects, exhibitions, loans and media.7.7
See all CollectionSpace alternatives →
CollectionSpace vs the competition
- CollectionSpace vs Axiell Collections
- CollectionSpace vs CatalogIt
- CollectionSpace vs TMS Collections
- CollectionSpace vs eHive
- CollectionSpace vs MuseumPlus
- CollectionSpace vs Mimsy XG
Compare CollectionSpace with any tool side by side →
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Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Sep 2026
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