Decatur Public Library sees major digital growth with Hoopla platform

DECATUR, Ill. (WAND) — In its 150th year of service, the Decatur Public Library is proving that even an institution steeped in history can stay ahead of the curve.

The library has seen a dramatic surge in its digital offerings, thanks in large part to Hoopla, a multi-format content platform that allows users to stream or download everything from audiobooks and eBooks to music, and movies with one login.

“Back in 2023, we had a $22,500 line item for Hoopla,” said Alissa T. Henkel, Head of Programs, Resources & Services at the library. “By 2024, we saw $96,000 worth of downloaded books."

Henkel said the library made a strategic decision to focus more heavily on Hoopla, simplifying the user experience and making it easier for people to find what they need in one place.

Hoopla is offered exclusively through public libraries. According to Ann Ford, Vice President of Sales and Customer Support for Hoopla Midwest, one of the platform’s biggest strengths is its ease of use—especially for seniors.

“My mom uses it because it’s simple,” Ford said. “You don’t need to remember five different logins. It’s one app, one place, and everything is available 24/7.”

That simplicity is especially meaningful in Decatur, where the library has partnered with the East Central Illinois Area Agency on Aging and Starting Point to support isolated seniors. The initiative, called Social Connections, provides tablets to the homebound —many of whom were isolated during the COVID-19 pandemic—so they can stream books, stay entertained, and feel connected.

“Decatur has a wide range of people with different needs,” said Henkel. “If someone likes to listen to books while running or cleaning, we want to be there for them just as much as for those who love holding a printed book in their hands.”

So far, more than 30 seniors have benefited from the tablet program, which continues to grow by connecting with Meals on Wheels and church groups.

As the library looks toward the future, the digital collection is expected to grow even more. Hoopla now offers access to nearly 2 million items, all available instantly—giving Decatur the same selection as those in New York, Los Angeles, or San Francisco.

People interested can visit the Decatur Public Library website.