Calibre-Web

Calibre-Web is a web application that connects to an existing Calibre library database to provide a clean interface for browsing, reading, and downloading eBooks. It adds multi-user access, permissions, and device-friendly catalog feeds on top of your Calibre-managed collection.

Key Features

• Browse and search a Calibre library with advanced filtering
• In-browser reading for supported eBook formats
• OPDS catalog feed for eReader and mobile reader apps
• User management with per-user permissions and access restrictions
• Admin UI for configuration and library settings
• Shelves/collections and support for Calibre custom columns
• Metadata editing and metadata download from external sources (plugin-extensible)
• Optional on-the-fly conversion using Calibre binaries
• Send-to-device workflows, including Kobo sync support
• Multiple authentication options (LDAP, OAuth, proxy authentication) and magic-link login

Use Cases

• Host a private household eBook library accessible from browsers and eReaders
• Provide a multi-user library portal for small organizations with access controls
• Publish an OPDS catalog for reading apps while keeping downloads restricted to authenticated users

Limitations and Considerations

• Requires a valid Calibre library database; it is not a replacement for Calibre’s library management workflow
• Some features (conversion, certain cover extraction, Kobo sync) require external binaries/tools to be installed and configured

Calibre-Web is a practical companion to Calibre for anyone who wants a web-based reading and sharing experience over an existing Calibre library. It is especially useful when you need multi-user access, OPDS support, and browser-based reading without exposing the full Calibre desktop application.