Library Streaming Services Set the Standard
Summer is just around the corner, which means it’s time to enjoy the outdoors, soak up some sun, and maybe even touch some grass. But when you need a break from the heat, let’s talk about the treasure trove that is your local library. If your library system is anything like mine, it’s packed with awesome resources and activities, all for the price of a free library card.
As a member of the Multnomah County Library system, I feel pretty lucky with the variety of offerings available. One of my favorite perks is the ability to load up my Kindle with a vast selection of ebooks through OverDrive, a platform that collaborates with thousands of libraries to share their digital collections. This means I always have something to read on hand; I can place up to 10 holds on ebooks, usually whenever a friend recommends something or I spot an intriguing title. When my hold finally comes through, it’s just a few clicks away from being ready on my Kindle the next time I fire it up.
Sure, sometimes it can take a while for a hold to be fulfilled, especially for popular titles. I waited quite a bit for my hold on Project Hail Mary, but it was definitely worth it! I’m a slow reader, so the wait doesn’t usually bother me. When I get that email notification that a book I’ve been looking forward to is ready for download, it feels like a little gift. OverDrive also has an app called Libby, where you can read books and magazines or listen to audiobooks.
OverDrive boasts partnerships with over 92,000 public libraries, K-12 schools, colleges, and corporations across 115 countries, so there’s a good chance you have access to it as well. If you’re curious whether your library or school supports it, you can check OverDrive’s website.
My library card opens the door to more than just ebooks; it also connects me to Hoopla, a free service that offers a variety of streaming films, TV shows, music, and even comic books through its website and app. With Hoopla, I can often listen to new albums on the same day they drop on other platforms. My wife has become a fan of shows like A French Village, binge-watched the entire UK version of The Office, and rewatched Orphan Black.
There are a few downsides: the catalog isn’t as extensive as what you’d find on paid services like Netflix or Spotify, video content doesn’t stream in 4K, and there’s a limit to how many items you can borrow each month. But in a pinch, Hoopla is a solid option for discovering something new, and the best part is, it’s completely free. To see if you can access Hoopla, the platform will check for partner libraries in your area when you sign up, or you can ask your local library. (If you have a library card, you might also want to check if you have access to Kanopy, another service with a selection of TV shows and movies.)
Of course, the library is also home to a wealth of physical books. While I do most of my reading on my Kindle, there’s something special about curling up in a comfy chair with a good old-fashioned book every now and then. Plus, a physical book never runs out of battery! The Multnomah County Library system also has DVDs and music CDs, so there’s plenty of physical media to explore. Some libraries even lend out video games, which is a fantastic way to try out new titles without breaking the bank in this pricey hobby.
Beyond borrowing items, many libraries provide valuable community services like computers, printers, meeting rooms, programs for kids and teens, and even makerspaces. Plus, the library can be a peaceful spot to relax for a bit, especially if it’s air-conditioned.
You might already have a packed summer schedule with places to go and things to do, but make sure to carve out some time for a visit to the library. I know I’ll be stopping by a few times!
