BPL ditches Hoopla digital platform over cost

• It's forcing tough choices for cash-strapped libraries.

Zoom in: Hoopla checkouts cost three times more than other digital resources, per the BPL.

• Hoopla represents less than 5% of BPL's total digital usage.
• BPL patrons' access to new Hoopla loans ends at 5pm on Sept. 30.

Yes, but: BPL is putting more resources toward less expensive platforms.

• Palace, an all-in-one reading app, and Boundless, which promises shorter wait times, will take up the digital slack.
• Freegal Music offers users unlimited audio streaming.
• Libby, with its popular choices and bestsellers, will still be available to BPL patrons.

The bottom line: The BPL's cost-saving pivot is part of the broader library industry's trend toward cheaper digital collections amid growing demand for eBooks, comics, music and other services beyond physical books.