In this first installment of Hoopla Half-Dozen, we head to Motown to learn about the Detroit Public Library including their innovative services and Hoopla-related insights from the assistant director of public services, Christine Stewart-Peele.
Click the arrow next to each question to reveal the answer.
1. What unique program does your library offer to the community?
In partnership with the City of Detroit’s Department of Innovation and Technology, two DPL branches are sites of an exciting new test program aimed at helping customers with their electronic devices. This initiative, Motor City Tech Bars, is available at the Redford and Douglass branches. Customers can receive assistance with using their electronic devices, such as smartphones, tablets, and laptops. Additionally, the program offers basic repairs for these devices, ensuring that community members can stay connected and make the most of their technology. This program is part of DPL’s ongoing efforts to bridge the digital divide and provide valuable resources to the community. Whether you need help troubleshooting a device or require a minor repair, we invite the public to make an appointment or simply walk in to take advantage of these services.
2. Each year, your library creates an African American Booklist. Could you tell us about this iconic publication?
For over 50 years, the Detroit Public Library has published its African American Booklist, an annual bibliography featuring book by and about African Americans. Initially created to commemorate Black History Month, the booklist celebrates African American literary achievements and has become a cherished tradition in Detroit and beyond. Originating in 1940, it has evolved from a small pamphlet to a comprehensive guide covering various genres and formats. Over the decades, it has highlighted notable themes and authors, such as Langston Hughes and W.E.B. DuBois, and included essays by scholars from prestigious universities. The library is still working on the 2025 booklist, so check out last year’s version.
The booklist underscores our commitment to diversity, education, and community engagement, reflecting the library’s role as a cultural and educational cornerstone. Today, it remains a highly anticipated publication, showcasing the rich contributions of African American authors and inspiring readers nationwide.
3. What feedback have your patrons shared about Hoopla?
Our customers love Hoopla. They enjoy not having to be on a waitlist for the majority of the titles on the app and the variety of options available, including music, films, and audiobooks
4. In what ways have you incorporated Hoopla into your outreach efforts?
Many of our customers are discovering audiobooks and find that they save money by using Hoopla instead of paying for a subscription service. Additionally, by offering the service, we are able to support many of our customers who face transportation challenges and provide a broad selection of content from underrepresented authors and foreign language media.
5. What have you learned as a Hoopla member library that can help other libraries maximize their experience?
Let your customers know that Hoopla is a service that the library provides to help them save money. Customers can use Hoopla to try out new music and books and even catch up on old TV shows!
6. How do you balance the increasing popularity of digital services like Hoopla with the financial constraints imposed by tighter budgets?
This is something we are actively thinking about now for the next fiscal year. Currently, we are limiting our Hoopla Flex budget to audiobooks only, which is our most popular format. We are keeping a close eye on customer usage and staying in contact with our salesperson, James Gonzalez, who has been a big help.
About the Detroit Public Library
The Detroit Public Library (DPL), established in 1865, is a vital community resource, with 23 branches offering a vast collection of books, digital media, and educational programs. The main branch on Woodward Avenue is known for its stunning architecture and grand reading rooms. DPL hosts events like author talks, workshops, and cultural performances, and provides essential services such as free internet access, literacy programs, and job seeker support. Its mission is to enlighten and empower people by providing diverse and dynamic pathways to literacy and learning, enhancing quality of life, promoting literacy, and fostering lifelong learning.
