Disclaimer:
Whatsapp-web.js is not affiliated with, endorsed, or authorized by WhatsApp or its affiliates. "WhatsApp" and related marks are registered trademarks of their respective owners. Use of unofficial methods may lead to account blocks, as WhatsApp does not support bots or unofficial clients. For critical business use, we recommend official solutions like Twilio or the WhatsApp Business API. [!IMPORTANT] It is not guaranteed you will not be blocked by using this method. WhatsApp does not allow bots or unofficial clients on their platform, so this shouldn't be considered totally safe.
WhatsApp is one of the most widely used messaging platforms today. With its ease of use and popularity among students and faculty, it has great potential for communication in libraries. However, WhatsApp does not provide a direct API for all users, especially for free. But with a bit of technical setup, it’s possible to create your own WhatsApp HTTP API that can send messages programmatically.
In this post, I’ll walk you through the benefits of setting up your own WhatsApp HTTP API using whatsapp-web.js and how it can be used effectively in a library context. A detailed step-by-step technical guide is linked at the end for those who want to set it up on their own server.
Why Use WhatsApp for Library Communication?
Libraries need to reach out to users regularly. This could be for reminding users about due dates, informing them about reserved book availability, sending workshop or event updates, or simply sharing links to library services. Traditional methods like email or printed notices are slow or often ignored.
On the other hand, WhatsApp messages are quick, direct, and more likely to be read. By automating WhatsApp messaging, libraries can save time and ensure users receive timely updates.
What is the WhatsApp HTTP API?
This is a self-hosted solution built using Node.js and a library called whatsapp-web.js. It simulates WhatsApp Web in the background and allows you to send messages via a simple HTTP POST request. That means other systems or tools (like your library management system or a Google Sheet) can send WhatsApp messages by making a request to your server.
This is not the official WhatsApp Business API but is ideal for academic or personal use cases where automation is needed.
Key Benefits for Libraries
Here are some practical advantages of using a WhatsApp HTTP API in libraries:
- Automated notifications: Due dates, fines, or reservations can be notified instantly.
- Higher engagement: WhatsApp messages have higher open and response rates compared to emails.
- Seamless integration: Can be connected with systems like Koha ILS, Google Apps Script, or room booking systems.
- User convenience: Users already use WhatsApp, so there’s nothing new for them to learn.
- Low-cost solution: No recurring fees or vendor lock-in.
How to Set It Up
Setting this up involves:
- Installing Node.js and Chromium on a Linux system (Debian/Ubuntu works well).
- Using whatsapp-web.js to interact with WhatsApp Web.
- Creating a basic Express server in Node.js.
- Exposing an API endpoint like /send that accepts phone numbers and messages.
- Running the server in the background using PM2 for reliability.
Once configured, sending a message is as simple as sending a POST request with the phone number and message content.
You can use tools like curl, Postman, or even Google Apps Script to make the API call. Here’s a simple example using curl:
curl -X POST http://localhost:3000/send \
-H "Content-Type: application/json" \
-d '{"number":"919567664972","message":"Hello from the library!"}'
This message will be delivered to the given WhatsApp number.
Want to Set This Up?
If you’re interested in trying this out for your own library or institution, I’ve created a complete configuration guide with step-by-step commands.
Read the full guide here: https://libtechnophile.blogspot.com/2025/05/how-to-set-up-whatsapp-http-api-for.html
Final Thoughts
This WhatsApp HTTP API is a simple yet powerful solution for modern library communication. It helps reduce workload, improves response times, and ensures better user engagement. With free and open-source tools, even small libraries can now offer professional-level digital communication.
If you have any questions or need help with implementation, feel free to get in touch. I’d be happy to help you get started.
