Purpose: The purpose of this paper is to provide a summary of the experiences of setting up an institutional repository at Loughborough University, focusing on some of the key issues that it was necessary to consider, the choices made and the challenges overcome. Design/methodology/approach: The paper outlines the various decision processes involved during the 12-month pilot phase. These include: choosing appropriate software; customising DSpace; implementing licences; and gathering content for the repository. Findings: The experiences highlight some of the challenges involved in setting up an institutional repository. Originality/value: This paper gives a direct insight into the different types of work involved in the setting up of an institutional repository and is an example of a system set up outside the boundaries of project funding.