Libraries have always been community hubs of knowledge and culture, providing access beyond books. To stay relevant in the digital world, libraries are revolutionizing the library experience and embracing new technologies. By combining the best of physical collections and digital options, complemented by convenient self-service borrowing, libraries are redefining and enhancing the user experience.
As libraries continue to grow into the digital landscape, they are looking for modern solutions that fit with contemporary lifestyles. Also, as sharers of knowledge, libraries have realized that streaming content is a significant aspect of today’s people’s routine. Traditional libraries as you know them are now the new and free content streaming option.
It’s not just about traditional media formats like DVDs and CDs anymore. With platforms like Kanopy, Hoopla, or OverDrive, streaming content as part of your free library membership, is one of the most common options libraries offer today. Find out more here:
Comparing streaming catalogues: libraries vs. commercial platforms
When considering the size and scope of streaming libraries, it’s evident that commercial platforms own extensive catalogues. As of December 2024, Amazon Prime Video leads with approximately 20,000 titles in the UK, including both movies and TV shows, while Netflix offers around 8,086 titles, focusing heavily on original content (Statista).
In contrast, library streaming services such as Kanopy and Hoopla have a great variety of alternative content beyond movies and TV shows, including educational content, audiobooks, and comics. While the specific number of titles may vary depending on the library’s subscriptions and regional availability, these platforms collectively offer access to thousands of films, documentaries, and educational videos. For instance, Kanopy offers a vast collection of over 30,000 films, including classic cinema, independent films, and documentaries. Hoopla has around 1 million titles of mixed audiovisual and reading content.
Library streaming services’ value proposition
Statista reported that as of June 2024, there were about 3.9 billion subscriptions to streaming services worldwide. In some countries such as Canada, the U.S., the UK, and Australia, over 60% of the population are subscribed to at least one streaming service platform. These commercial platforms are based on paid subscriptions, while library streaming services such as Kanopy and Hoopla are free for patrons with a library card. The free streaming model not only alleviates the financial burden on patrons but also promotes equitable access to quality content.
The tech revolution
In the same way that Hoopla and Kanopy make it easier for users to access streaming content, library self-checkout systems like Meescan offer the same level of convenience to users. Imagine being able to check out your library’s hardcopy resources directly from your smartphone, or simply enjoying all the extra time you would have after a quick checkout at a Meescan kiosk. With Meescan, patrons have the power to check out their items and free up librarians from the checkout desk.
Supporting libraries in their evolution
While libraries start to embrace digital content more and more, physical items like CDs, technology equipment, and books remain essential – and inclusive. Tools like Meescan help libraries offer the best of both worlds, ensure that patrons can borrow these materials quickly and independently, and enhance everyone’s overall experience.
Here’s the best of Meescan:
- Quick and easy checkout: Patrons can scan items directly from their smartphones anywhere in the library or from a Meescan kiosk, offering convenience and privacy.
- Accessible for all: Meescan’s intuitive interface ensures that patrons of all ages and technology comfort levels can enjoy a smooth checkout process.
- Efficiency for libraries: By reducing the time staff spend on routine checkouts, Meescan allows librarians to focus on programming, community engagement, and expanding services.
- Enhancing discovery and engagement: The Meescan app provides easy access to your library’s catalog, allowing patrons to explore additional resources during the checkout process within the app!
These features increase engagement and help make the most of each library visit, but there’s even more as Meescan offers a flexible self-checkout solution. With a wide range of features and configurations, Meescan will fit each library’s unique workflow.
You might be thinking, “Is this really as good as it sounds?”
Believe it or not, it absolutely is. However, be aware streaming services through libraries might be more of an additional streaming service instead of a replacement due to the content type these platforms offer. While you won’t find Barbie or Oppenheimer streaming on Kanopy or Hoopla just yet, give yourself the chance to check their vast catalogue of independent films that are often harder to find on commercial streaming services.
Next time you visit your local library, take a moment to appreciate how modern tools like Kanopy, Hoopla, and Meescan are redefining the library experience.
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