Librarians are constantly striving to make collections as accessible and discoverable as possible. Hoopla Digital is a great way for libraries to offer a wide range of media—including eBooks, audiobooks, movies, comics, and music—to patrons instantly. Here’s how Hoopla can significantly increase the discoverability of your collection and attract new patrons.

Because Hoopla is a cloud-based platform that provides library patrons immediate access to digital content, patrons can explore a diverse array of titles right from their devices. This ease of access is not just a boon for existing library users; it also attracts new patrons who may not have previously utilized library services. Because Hoopla means no waiting lists and instant borrowing, your library’s catalog of digital offerings is accessible to every patron, any time.

Enhance Your Catalog with Hoopla

One of the standout features of Hoopla is its integration capabilities with your library catalog. By adding Hoopla’s MARC records to your catalog, you can effectively promote the digital titles available through the platform. This means that when a patron searches for a book or movie in your catalog, they will see Hoopla content alongside your physical materials. Here’s how to maximize this integration:

  1. Utilize MARC Records:
    By incorporating Hoopla’s MARC records, you can seamlessly integrate digital titles into your existing catalog system. This not only enhances the discoverability of your Hoopla collection but also provides patrons with a comprehensive view of all available resources, both digital and physical.
  2. Leverage Your Library’s Website:
    Incorporate links to Hoopla on your library’s website. Create a dedicated section highlighting the digital resources available through Hoopla. This could include curated lists of popular titles, seasonal collections, or themed recommendations. By promoting Hoopla prominently on your website, you can direct patrons to explore and borrow digital content easily.
  3. Promote via Social Media and Newsletters
    Social media and library newsletters are excellent platforms for promoting your Hoopla collection. Share highlights of new arrivals, staff picks, or themed collections with engaging posts or articles. By showcasing the variety of content available on Hoopla, you can capture the interest of both existing and potential patrons.

Engage New Patrons

One of the most significant advantages of Hoopla is its ability to attract new patrons to your library. With its user-friendly interface and instant access, Hoopla offers a level of convenience that appeals to a tech-savvy audience.

Measure and Adapt

To maximize the impact of Hoopla on your library’s discoverability, it’s essential to track usage statistics and gather feedback. Analyze which titles are popular, which demographics are using Hoopla, and what promotional strategies are effective. This data will allow you to adapt your approach, ensuring that your digital collection continues to meet the needs of your community.

Advantages of Increasing Collection Discoverability 

  • Drives down patron-driven acquisition costs 
  • Great for patron engagement (no holds or waiting for titles) 
  • Expands community reach 
  • Improves discoverability for patrons and staff 
  • Enhances visibility of DEI content (race, LGBTQ+, mental health, and more) 
  • Opens up access to content in more than 100 world languages 
  • Increases discoverability of content from independent authors and artists