Online conversations often lead to false narratives regarding our pricing and lead to uncertainty about the sustainability of Hoopla. It’s important to us that we join the conversation to explain how our pricing works and reaffirm our values as your partner. At Hoopla, our mission has always been simple: empower libraries with a digital service that is easy to use, budget friendly, and built on trust. 

Here’s what we want every library to know: 

1) Transparency and fair pricing aren’t just important – they’re foundational to who we are

We believe libraries should always know exactly what they’re paying for, and that pricing should be thoughtfully optimized to support their budgets. Which is why: 

  • We work hand-in-hand with publishers to deliver pricing that meets the needs of libraries and aligns with our mission of equitable access.
  • Pricing is openly published on our website, and our average cost per circ remains around $2. If pricing ever needed to evolve in the future, we would share those updates proactively with our library partners via our website. 

2) We have not increased prices, and no titles cost more than $3.99 USD 

There has been mention of Hoopla raising prices, so we want to address that directly: 

  • We do not offer Instant titles over $3.99 USD 
  • Less than 1% of our entire Instant catalog is priced at $3.99 USD 
  • Our average cost per circulation consistently hovers around $2 USD 

This predictable, stable pricing structure is key to helping libraries manage their budgets while giving patrons access to a wide range of digital content. 

3) Addressing the narrative that Hoopla pricing is sustainable 

We have seen the phrase “unsustainable pricing” surface from time to time, and we want to acknowledge that conversation directly because it deserves clarity. 

Our commitment has always been to help libraries stretch their budgets further, not strain them. Our model is designed to: 

Delivering content that your patrons want, when they want it is the only way to be sustainable in today’s digital environment. 

Our team works every day to make Hoopla more efficient, more predictable, and more aligned with the needs of our library partners. 

4) Our promise to libraries 

We understand that budgets are tight, demand is high, and clarity matters. We are here to be a partner that listens, communicates openly, and builds tools and pricing structures that support your community. 

If you ever have questions about pricing, cost controls, or your settings, our team is always here and happy to help. 

Libraries are at the heart of what we do, and we are committed to earning your trust every single day. 

*Any pricing quoted is specific to the U.S. market.