Introduction
As one of the many available streaming services, Hoopla has captured the attention of users that are always searching for new platforms to get access to entertainment content. However, the question many keep asking is, “Is Hoopla free?” As confusing as that may seem, it’s a simple yes and no answer. The purpose of this article is to help readers understand Hoopla’s pricing model, the difference between the free and the paid versions, and how to use it effectively without paying anything.
Top 5 reasons why Hoopla is free and why you should use it
It’s easy to assume that if a service is provided to the public, it must come at a cost. However, Hoopla created a revenue model that let them provide free access to their platform. Here are the reasons why Hoopla is free and why you should use it:
1. Partnership with public libraries
Hoopla works with public libraries across the United States and Canada. This partnership allows libraries to provide their patrons with a broader range of content offerings without paying additional fees. Likewise, Hoopla benefits from this partnership because it gets to offer free content to a larger audience without the cost of marketing and advertising.
2. Supported by ads
Hoopla operates on an advertising-supported model. Advertisers pay Hoopla to display their ads on the platform, and in return, Hoopla provides free content to users. The company balances the amount of advertising, so users don’t feel like they’re being bombarded with ads when they’re using the platform.
3. Large collection of content
Hoopla offers an extensive collection of movies, TV shows, eBooks, audiobooks, music, and comics from various genres and formats. This huge collection attracts more users to the platform, which Hoopla monetizes by displaying ads.
4. Easy user interface
Hoopla has a user-friendly interface that allows users to easily navigate the platform. It’s effortless to find content and get started, which makes it an ideal platform for beginners or someone looking to explore free services.
5. Multiple device compatibility
Hoopla is compatible with multiple devices such as smartphones, tablets, PCs, and streaming devices like Roku, Apple TV, and Chromecast. This device versatility makes it convenient for users to access the platform anywhere, anytime, and on any device.
The difference between free and paid versions of Hoopla
Hoopla offers two versions, the free and the paid version. Here are the differences between the two versions:
The availability of certain features
With Hoopla’s free version, users can access a limited collection of content per month. For example, they may only be able to borrow ten movies or ten eBooks a month. On the other hand, users who subscribe to Hoopla’s paid version, Hoopla plus, have unlimited access to all Hoopla’s offerings.
Plenty of content to explore
Users with Hoopla’s free version can still access a considerable volume of free content each month. With public libraries as a partner, there is a vast collection of movies, TV shows, eBooks, audiobooks, music, and comics to choose from.
How to make the most of the free Hoopla platform
Now that you understand what Hoopla offers and its pricing model, let’s dive into how to make the most of the free Hoopla platform. Here are the steps you can take to get started with Hoopla:
Step 1: Sign up
The first step is to visit the Hoopla website or download the Hoopla app from Google Play Store, the Apple App Store, or your device’s app store. Once you have downloaded the app, create an account. When creating your account, ensure that you choose your library’s name and enter in your library card number.
Step 2: Search for content
After signing up, start exploring Hoopla’s extensive collection of content. Browse through various genres to discover new titles. Users can also search for specific titles, artists, authors, or keywords to find what they’re looking for.
Step 3: Borrow titles
Once you have found what you’re looking for, borrow the title by clicking on the “borrow” button. You may have to confirm that you want to borrow the item. Hoopla remembers your borrowed content, so you can easily return to read, watch, or listen to it anytime you want.
Tip 1: Manage your account
Users can use their Hoopla account to track their borrowing history, view borrowed content, and manage their menu. It’s essential to keep track of your title because you have a limited number of titles per month.
Tip 2: Download titles
Users can download titles to their device to access offline content. This feature is convenient for users who want to keep their data charges low and continue to enjoy their content without internet access.
Hoopla’s impact on public libraries and why it’s free
Hoopla has a positive impact on public libraries and its users. Here is how it benefits public libraries and its users:
Relationship between Hoopla and libraries
Hoopla works with public libraries to provide free access to its collection of content. The partnership with public libraries allows Hoopla to offer a broader range of content for free. Furthermore, public libraries benefit by providing their patrons with free and easy access to Hoopla’s collection, which supports the library’s mission of providing knowledge and entertainment to all community members.
Benefits of Hoopla for libraries and patrons alike
Libraries benefit from Hoopla’s partnership because they get free content to offer their patrons, more foot traffic in their branches, access to Hoopla’s statistics and usage data, and saving costs on money spent buying content. Patrons benefit from having access to free and high-quality entertainment options. Public libraries are essential sources of information and entertainment for their communities. With Hoopla, libraries can continue to support their communities without stretching their budgets.
Importance of free access to Hoopla for public libraries and their users
Hoopla provides equitable access to content for patrons who can’t afford to pay extra fees for entertainment content. Hoopla’s collection of content for free supports public libraries’ mission to provide access to information to all community members regardless of their economic circumstance.
Alternatives to Hoopla
Although Hoopla offers a fantastic collection of free content, users may want to explore different alternatives. Here are some Hoopla alternatives:
1. Kanopy
Kanopy is another streaming platform that partners with libraries to provide free access to movies and documentaries. Kanopy operates on a similar model as Hoopla and aims to provide knowledge and entertainment to all community members.
2. Overdrive
Overdrive is a digital platform that provides free access to eBooks, audiobooks, magazines, and video content. Like Hoopla, Overdrive partners with local libraries to provide free access to users.
3. Tubi
Tubi is a free video streaming platform that offers a wide variety of movies and TV shows. Although it doesn’t have a partnership with public libraries, it provides a great selection of free content.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Hoopla is free, and its business model differs from other streaming services. With its partnership with public libraries and its advertising-supported model, it provides free access to a considerable collection of content. Users can make the most of the free version of Hoopla by signing up, searching for content, and borrowing titles. Additionally, other alternatives to Hoopla exist such as Kanopy, Overdrive, and Tubi. Regardless of what you choose, make sure to explore the available options and enjoy the quality entertainment for free.
