A pretty awesome development over at the Champaign Public Library, which now offers a bunch of instant digital access to music, movies and other programs. Check out the full press release below.
From the press release:
Hoopla Digital Brings Instant-Access Digital Music, Movies and Audiobooks to Champaign Public Library
For the first time, the Champaign Public Library is able to offer instant access to streaming or downloadable music, movies, television programs and audiobooks, thanks to a Hoopla Digital subscription launched on December 1.
Hoopla offers Champaign library cardholders thousands of titles from major Hollywood studios, record companies, and publishers through a simple interface. Patrons can borrow five items per month with no waiting and no overdue fees. Audiobooks are loaned for 3 weeks, music for 1 week, and movies and television programs for 3 days. Music is loaned as complete albums, including a “New Music Tuesday” category offering albums the day they are released.
To stream or download on a smartphone or tablet, patrons need the free Hoopla Digital app, which works on Apple devices (iOS6 or higher) and Androids (Android 4 or higher). The app leads patrons through a simple signup process. On a computer, Hoopla is available for streaming only and requires an Internet connection. Computer users should create a Hoopla account using the “Sign Up” link on the Hoopla website at https://www.hoopladigital.com/
“New and better ways for libraries to provide digital content are developing quickly,” said Adult Services Manager Kristina Hoerner. “Our library is constantly evaluating these, and Hoopla is one of the best available right now.”
Purchase of Hoopla was made possible by funds from the Champaign Public Library Friends. Hoopla joins a digital collection that includes Zinio magazines and My Media Mall eBooks and audiobooks. In the spring, the library plans to add digital content that will be integrated into the library catalog—an advancement that the library hopes will build awareness of its digital options, especially as use of mobile devices and digital content continues to grow.
“Many people still aren’t aware that the title they’re looking for in our catalog may be available digitally,” Hoerner said. “The library already has a lot to offer smartphone and tablet users, and it’s improving all the time.”
For more information about Hoopla, contact the library at librarian@champaign.org or at 217/403-2070.