I Didn’t Know the Library Had That: Five Reasons Hoopla Catalog Integration Matters
You’ve probably heard it more times than you can count:
“I didn’t know the library had that!”
It’s a familiar refrain, because even as digital collections grow, many patrons simply don’t realize the full depth of what’s available to them. Hidden eBooks, overlooked audiobooks, under-used language collections, or missed children’s titles all contribute to a digital collection that isn’t reaching its full impact.
That’s where integrating Hoopla records into your library’s online catalog becomes a game changer. When patrons can see Hoopla content exactly where they already search—your OPAC or library mobile app—you eliminate barriers and open the door to significantly better engagement.
Hoopla integration enhances discovery, improves patron experience, and gives libraries more control over their cataloging workflows. Here are five reasons why integration matters:
1. Better Patron Experience Through Reduced Wait Times
Hoopla’s unique model allows patrons to borrow many titles instantly—no holds, no waitlists. By surfacing these Instant titles directly in your catalog, you give patrons quick alternatives to long wait queues on other platforms. That means faster access, happier readers, and fewer complaints about lengthy hold lists.
2. Showcase the Full Breadth of Your Digital Collection
Many libraries invest heavily in digital content, but those resources only fulfill their potential when patrons know they exist. Hoopla offers a rich mix of frontlist and backlist titles across genres and formats. Integrating those records into your OPAC ensures patrons can discover everything you offer in one centralized search, maximizing visibility and usage.
3. Strengthen Early Literacy Resources
With more than 320,000 juvenile titles, Hoopla is a powerhouse for kids’ content! Integrating these records helps families and educators easily find great children’s books, early readers, audiobooks, and read-along titles. Better visibility means stronger support for literacy initiatives and early learning programs.
4. Expand Your Community Reach with Diverse Content
Libraries serve communities with varied backgrounds, cultures, and languages. Hoopla supports this mission with more than 365,000 IDEA (Inclusivity, Diversity, Equity, and Access) titles and content in more than 135 languages. Integrating records increases visibility for underrepresented voices and ensures patrons can discover materials that reflect their identity, culture, and interests.
5. Better Budget Management Through Transparency
Hoopla’s integration options give libraries clearer insight into usage and spending, both within Hoopla and through discovery layers via Hoopla’s API and MARC records. Detailed circulation and cost-per-use reporting helps libraries understand what their budgets are delivering, support smarter discovery, and adjust purchasing strategies to better meet local needs.
Two Flexible Options for Receiving Hoopla Records
While every library has its own workflows and preferences, Hoopla makes it simple by offering two different ways to bring records into your catalog. Both approaches make it easier for your patrons to discover everything your library has to offer.
Automatic updates with the Hoopla API feed: If your team prefers a set-it-and-forget-it approach, the API feed is the smoothest option. Once it’s connected, it keeps your catalog updated automatically, with no extra steps or manual uploads. Anytime Hoopla adjusts title information or availability, those changes flow right into your system via regular catalog syncs. The API is an option for a wide range of discovery platforms, including SirsiDynix’s eResource Central, Aspen Discovery, BiblioCore, Vega LX, Communico, SOLUS, and others.
One extra perk: depending on your catalog’s capabilities, patrons may even be able to borrow, hold, or return Hoopla titles right from the interface they already use to explore your physical and digital collections. It’s a seamless experience for them, and less administrative work for your staff.
More hands-on control with Hoopla’s MARC SFTP file share: For libraries that like to touch every record before it goes live (or those that have unique cataloging requirements), the SFTP option offers full flexibility.
You can log in whenever you’d like and pull down MARC records to upload on your own schedule. Some libraries choose to bring in the full Hoopla catalog, while others prefer a curated set of popular or featured titles. Monthly email reminders help you stay on top of new record releases, and the files themselves can be organized based on your specific cataloging settings, making the import process smoother.
This method gives you the freedom to edit records, customize them, and integrate them in whatever way best aligns with your local cataloging practices.
Want to Learn More?
To explore Hoopla record integration or discuss which method best suits your workflow, contact your account exec at 800.875.2785 or email info@midwesttape.com.
