In 2026, public libraries have an opportunity to rethink how they serve their communities in the digital age.
With average patron wait times typically clocking in at over 60 days—and sometimes reaching up to five times that number*—the traditional model of digital lending, built around limited licenses and long waitlists, no longer aligns with the expectations of today’s patrons. As digital media consumption continues to evolve, forward-thinking libraries are evolving with it.
The reality is clear: digital consumers expect instant access. Whether it’s streaming a movie, downloading an audiobook, or reading an eBook, the modern patron is accustomed to seamless, on-demand experiences. Yet many libraries still rely on models that restrict access, frustrate users, and ultimately reduce engagement.
Let’s change that.
By shifting focus to accessibility, libraries can better meet demand and remain vital in their communities. This doesn’t mean abandoning curation or budget-consciousness, it means rethinking what a balanced digital collection looks like in a world where immediacy matters.
Enter Hoopla
A recent review of 15 libraries showed that the libraries spent a total of nearly $1 million on titles that have circulated 10 times or less.*
Hoopla offers a different—yet still sustainable—approach to digital lending.
With Instant, Hoopla’s pay per use model, patrons get immediate access to a robust catalog of eBooks, audiobooks, comics and manga, music, movies, and TV shows, with no holds and no waitlists.
This means every patron can borrow what they want, when they want it. For libraries, this means fewer complaints, more engagement, and better data on what your community values, allowing your library to direct budget dollars toward the most desired content and away from expensive content that never gets borrowed.
Roughly 40% of our competitor’s collection is available on Hoopla Instant. And while other platforms circulate around 200 titles per year, Hoopla often circulates more than 4,000 titles. These are titles that are patron requests or are paid licenses that might only draw 25% utilization*
Instead of guessing what might be popular and rationing access, Hoopla empowers libraries to offer a wide-ranging collection that reflects real-time demand. It’s a model built for flexibility, responsiveness, and satisfaction.
Why This Matters in 2026
Budgets are tight. Staff time is limited. And patrons have more choices than ever. If libraries want to remain competitive and relevant, they must offer experiences that mirror the convenience and quality of commercial platforms without sacrificing their mission.
Hoopla helps bridge that gap. It supports equitable access, encourages exploration, and provides usage-based pricing that aligns with actual community interest. Libraries can control costs while still delivering a premium patron experience.
And perhaps most importantly, Hoopla helps libraries stay true to their core values: access, inclusion, and service. It’s not about having everything; it’s about having what matters, when it matters.
Rethink Your Digital Strategy
2026 is the year to be bold. To be different. To lead.
The digital landscape is shifting fast. Hoopla offers a way to stay ahead of that curve by putting patrons first and embracing a model that works for everyone.
Let’s move beyond waitlists. Let’s build collections that inspire, engage, and serve. Let’s be different.
*Data compiled from digital assessments of select public libraries, varying in size and regional location.
