Patrons today expect instant access to a vast array of digital resources. This demand has prompted libraries to invest heavily in digital formats. However, the rising costs associated with acquiring and licensing these resources pose significant challenges. Many titles are expiring just as quickly as new ones are added.

To counteract this trend and maintain a robust collection, it’s crucial for libraries to diversify their offerings. This is where Hoopla—and its digital catalog— comes in.

Hoopla’s Instant Collection is your Digital Catalog

Hoopla’s Instant collection is an ever-expanding repository of 1.5 million front, back and mid-list titles. This extensive collection is consistently available and grows by over 20,000 new titles each month. It includes a wide range of formats—eBooks, audiobooks, music, movies, and comics, manga and BingePass—so that libraries can meet the needs of every patron (and potential patron!) in their community.

This dynamic collection features new releases and titles coming off embargoes. Whether patrons are looking for the latest bestsellers, classic literature, or specialized genres, Hoopla provides a comprehensive list of options.

Navigating the Challenges of Building a Digital
Collection

The landscape of digital collections can be complex. With two of the Big 5 publishers offering only metered titles and all five (Hachette Book Group, HarperCollins, Macmillan, Penguin Random House, and Simon & Schuster) offering metered only for eBook titles, libraries must rethink their purchasing and collection building strategies.

The prevalence of metered licenses can complicate collection management, particularly when it comes to maintaining a balanced selection of titles.

At the same time, with 70% of book sales dedicated to backlist titles, the demand for evergreen and classic works remains high. This underscores the importance of not only acquiring new titles but also ensuring that timeless works are available to patrons. By leveraging both Hoopla Flex and Instant, libraries can create a more balanced and enduring collection, integrating new and classic works into their offerings.

The Importance of a Balanced Collection

To effectively navigate the complexities of digital collections and budgeting, libraries should think about balance. Relying solely on one vendor or type of license can lead to gaps in the collection. By incorporating both one copy/one user and pay per use, you can enhance your collection management strategy and ensure that you are not solely dependent on metered licenses. Luckily Hoopla offers this and more:

  1. Access to a Broad Range of Titles
    With Hoopla, libraries have access to a vast selection of titles that go beyond what many traditional licensing agreements offer. This breadth enables libraries to meet various patron requests without the delays associated with holds, title requests or waiting lists.
  2. Cost-Effective Solutions
    Hoopla’s model is designed to be flexible for varying budgets. Libraries pay only for what patrons borrow, making it easier to manage funds. This approach allows for greater balance between high-demand titles, new titles, and evergreen or backlist titles.
  3. Instant Access and Satisfaction
    Patrons today expect, and value, instant access to materials. With Hoopla, there are no holds and no waiting with Instant—just immediate access to a wide range of digital content. This level of service not only meets patron expectations but also enhances overall satisfaction and engagement with the library.

Implementing Hoopla in Your Library

Integrating Hoopla into your library’s collection management strategy is straightforward. Here are some steps to get started:

  1. Assess Your Community’s Needs: Understand what types of digital resources your patrons are looking for. Conduct surveys or gather feedback to identify gaps in your current collection.
  2. Explore Hoopla’s Offerings: Familiarize yourself with the extensive range of titles available with Hoopla. Take advantage of the Flex and Instant collections and the diverse formats offered.
  3. Set Borrowing Parameters: With Hoopla, you can control your library’s borrowing limits and budget effectively. This ensures that you can provide ample access while managing costs.
  4. Promote Your Digital Resources: Once Hoopla is integrated, promote its offerings via your library’s website, newsletters, and social media. Highlight the variety and accessibility of titles to attract more users.