If you’ve ever wanted free movies, audiobooks, or ebooks without paying for Netflix or Audible, you might’ve heard of Hoopla. But what is it?
Hoopla is a digital service that gives you free access to books, movies, shows, and more — through your local library. No fees. No ads. Just your library card.
In this article, you’ll learn what Hoopla is, how it works, what you can get on it, and whether it’s a good fit for you.
What Is Hoopla?
Hoopla (also known as Hoopla Digital) is an online media service run by a company called Midwest Tape. It partners with public libraries to let people stream or download digital content for free.
It’s like having a media library in your pocket. You can borrow movies, read ebooks, listen to music or audiobooks — all with your library card.
You don’t need to visit the library in person. Everything is accessible through the Hoopla app or website.
What Can You Watch or Read on Hoopla?
Hoopla offers a wide range of digital content. Here’s what you can access:
- Audiobooks: Fiction, non-fiction, kids, classics
- Ebooks: Bestsellers, young adult, children’s books
- Comics and Graphic Novels: DC, Marvel, and more
- Movies: New releases, indie films, classics
- TV Shows: Drama, comedy, kids’ shows, documentaries
- Music Albums: Popular artists, soundtracks, playlists
There’s content for adults, teens, and young kids. You’ll also find educational series and language learning.
How Does Hoopla Work?
You don’t buy or rent anything on Hoopla. Instead, you borrow items, just like at your local library.
Here’s how it works:
- Sign up at hoopladigital.com or download the Hoopla app
- Enter your email and set a password
- Link your library card (only from supported libraries)
- Start borrowing instantly
Each library sets how many items you can borrow a month, usually 5 to 10. Borrowed items return themselves when they expire, so no late fees.
You can stream online or download content to watch or listen oto ffline later.
Which Devices Support Hoopla?
Hoopla works on most common devices, making it easy to access your borrowed content from anywhere. You can use it on smartphones and tablets, including both Android and iOS devices. If you’re using a computer, you can stream directly through a web browser like Chrome, Safari, or Firefox — there’s no need to install extra software.
For those who prefer watching on a bigger screen, Hoopla also supports smart TVs and streaming devices. It works with Roku, Apple TV, Amazon Fire TV, and Chromecast. This means you can watch movies or shows straight from your TV using the Hoopla app. Whether you’re at home or on the go, Hoopla gives you flexible access to its content library across all major platforms.
Is Hoopla Really Free?
Yes. Hoopla is 100% free to use.
There are no monthly charges, no ads, and no hidden fees. All you need is a valid library card from a library that supports Hoopla.
Your local library covers the cost of the service. Each time you borrow something, you pay a small fee to Hoopla. That’s why there’s a monthly limit — it helps manage costs.
If your library doesn’t support Hoopla, you won’t be able to use it unless you get a card from one that does.
Pros and Cons of Using Hoopla
Here’s a quick look at what’s good and not-so-good about Hoopla:
Pros
- Free access to books, movies, music, and more
- No ads, no fees, no subscriptions
- Works on most devices
- Offline downloads supported
- Great for families and kids
Cons
- Monthly borrowing limit (set by your library)
- Not every library supports it
- Some newer content may not be available
- Movie selection is smaller than Netflix or Hulu
Hoopla vs Other Library Apps (Libby, Kanopy)
There are also other free apps, such as Libby and Kanopy. Here’s how they compare:
- Libby: Focused on ebooks and audiobooks. Doesn’t include movies or music.
- Kanopy: Focused on films and documentaries. No books or audiobooks.
- Hoopla: Offers a little bit of everything — books, audiobooks, comics, movies, music, and TV shows.
Hoopla’s enormous strength is that it’s all-in-one. You get multiple types of content in one app.
Final Thoughts
If you’re someone who enjoys reading books, watching movies, or listening to music and audiobooks, then Hoopla is a smart option to consider. It gives you access to thousands of titles completely free — no subscription, no hidden charges — all thanks to your local library. It’s instrumental if you want to save money on streaming services or book apps.
Hoopla is easy to use, works on nearly every device, and offers a nice mix of media for all ages. Whether you’re a parent looking for kids’ content, a student needing access to audiobooks, or just someone who enjoys watching shows offline, Hoopla can be a helpful tool in your daily routine.
Just make sure your library is partnered with the service, and you’re ready to go.