One of the most common and critical conversations we have with our library partners centers on budget control—and for good reason.
Public libraries face mounting pressure to deliver robust digital services, but that’s only part of the challenge. Providing this type of service while staying within increasingly constrained budgets is an entirely different animal.
The Budget Challenge in the Digital Age
Libraries are navigating a complex web of financial challenges: uncertain funding, rising costs of metered licenses, and a growing demand for digital content that often outpaces the ability to serve it. Traditional collection development practices are rooted in physical media and haven’t fully adapted to the nuances of digital licensing, leaving many libraries struggling to sustain their digital offerings.
Compounding the issue is a lack of transparency.
Libraries often don’t have access to the data they need to make informed decisions, and major publishers are increasingly marketing directly to patrons, driving up holds and monopolizing budgets. In fact, a recent review of digital collection data from several libraries revealed that 54% of the budget was spent on just 38% of titles, primarily from the Big Five publishers.
This imbalance has real consequences. Holds are climbing, licenses are expiring faster than they can be replaced, and valuable content from small presses, midlist authors, and independent creators is being overlooked. Libraries are left with limited options and diminishing returns.
So What Can Libraries Do?
Hoopla offers an all-in-one solution that helps libraries manage their digital collections more effectively, balancing their budgets with patron experience and operational efficiency. Here’s how:
1. Change Buying Behaviors
Libraries can shift away from reactive purchasing and start building collections strategically. This means leveraging all available license types—instant access, perpetual ownership, and metered licenses—to create a well-rounded collection that meets diverse patron needs.
2. Leverage Data
Data is key. Understanding usage trends, hold patterns, and cost per circulation empowers libraries to make smarter decisions. Hoopla provides the insights needed to optimize spending and ensure every dollar stretches further.
3. Develop a Digital Strategy
A strong digital strategy is the foundation of effective collection development. Many libraries still treat digital as an afterthought in their policies. But digital content requires consideration of licensing terms, system compatibility, integrations, AI, and more. A thoughtful strategy ensures that policies support long-term goals.
4. Consolidate Services
Simplifying the digital ecosystem can reduce costs and improve the patron experience. By consolidating services, libraries can streamline operations and focus on delivering high-quality content.
Join the Movement
We think about these challenges every day. Hoopla isn’t just a platform—it’s a movement committed to providing the tools, data, and support libraries need to take control of their digital collections and budgets. Whether it’s helping you build a more sustainable licensing strategy or guiding you through policy development, we’re here to help.
Ready to join the movement? Reach out to your Hoopla representative to learn more about how we can support your library’s digital transformation.
