Question 1

Who creates the 3D map?

Accepted Answer

The map is generated from your existing plans, evacuation plans, surveys, then refined by the Loupe team. You adjust it afterwards in the editor: moving a shelf doesn't require an architect.

Question 2

In which languages?

Accepted Answer

Seven today: French, German, English, Italian, Spanish, Dutch and Luxembourgish, right-to-left scripts included. The public interface follows the visitor's language, and AI-assisted translation speeds up the work while leaving you editorial control.

Question 3

What about accessibility?

Accepted Answer

It is part of the design: keyboard navigation, screen-reader compatibility, careful contrast, semantic HTML, following the WCAG rules behind public-sector requirements (RGAA in France, Swiss federal standards). It is an acceptance criterion for every capability, not an option.

Question 4

Can we test it on our own catalogue?

Accepted Answer

Yes. The demo can run on your real catalogue, and a test access lets you evaluate Loupe with your own data before committing, with no risk to your system.

Question 5

Does it work on mobile?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Loupe is 100% web and mobile-first: your visitors reach it from their phone, with nothing to install.

Question 6

How does Loupe compare to StackMap or SpringShare?

Accepted Answer

They are good tools, each covering part of the need: StackMap adds shelf-level wayfinding to the catalogue, and the SpringShare suite (LibCal, LibGuides) covers bookings and subject guides. Loupe brings these uses together on one platform, a 3D map of the building, the catalogue in natural language, bookings, events, guides, with a single front door for the visitor, seven languages, and hosting entirely in Switzerland, AI included.

Question 7

Do we have to change our ILS?

Accepted Answer

No. Loupe connects to your existing system, Alma, Primo and RERO today; Koha, Syracuse and Orphée are on the way. Your data stays where it is; Loupe reads it and puts it on stage.

Question 8

Does Loupe replace our OPAC or website?

Accepted Answer

No. Loupe sits on top of your ILS and reads your data where it is. On the public side it's your call: Loupe can become your website, or slot into your existing one as a simple widget. Your OPAC stays available.

Question 9

What if we change ILS later?

Accepted Answer

No problem. Loupe connects to your ILS through open standards and is tied to no vendor. The day you migrate, your public layer, map, catalogue, bookings, events, doesn't move: we reconnect the new system. You lose neither your user experience nor your investment in Loupe.

Question 10

Where is the data hosted?

Accepted Answer

Entirely in Switzerland: data and AI run on Swiss servers and never leave them. Loupe complies with the GDPR and the Swiss nFADP, and welcomes international libraries.

Question 11

How much does it cost?

Accepted Answer

Free is free with 4 staff accounts and 2 GB. Basic costs €349 excluding tax per month, billed annually. Map, Loupe Search, Affluence and custom configurations are quoted separately.

Question 12

Are we paying for things we won't use?

Accepted Answer

Free and Basic are two starting configurations. You can add modules or request a custom setup; scope and pricing are agreed before commitment.

Question 13

Is it compatible with public procurement?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Loupe is billed as a fixed subscription, set by contract and multi-year if needed, with no usage-based billing or variable tokens. The model is built for public tenders.

Question 14

How long does it take to get started?

Accepted Answer

Technical deployment takes a few hours, with no work for your IT team. The 3D map is generated from your existing plans, count a few days for the whole thing.

Question 15

Which libraries do you already work with?

Accepted Answer

Loupe equips academic and public libraries across Switzerland and Europe. On request, we put you in touch with institutions comparable to yours.

Frequently asked questions

Product and use cases

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The future of librariesis explorable.