Germantown Library discontinues Hoopla due to budget cuts and service comparisons

During a recent meeting of the West Bend Library Board, discussions centered around budgetary challenges and the future of the digital media service Hoopla. As libraries face increasing financial pressures, the board explored the implications of potential cuts to this popular resource.

One library representative indicated that their institution anticipates a budget cut due to the costs associated with moving to a new building. This change has led them to consider discontinuing Hoopla, a service that allows immediate access to digital content. They expect to have more clarity on their budget situation by the end of the week. Another library echoed similar concerns, stating that they might not be able to support Hoopla in the future, as it represents a significant portion of their budget.

The board also noted that Germantown had already discontinued Hoopla in 2024, citing a budget cut of $100,000 and receiving several complaints from patrons. While many complaints were understood, the financial realities forced their hand.

A key point of discussion was the comparison between Hoopla and other services like Libby and Overdrive. Unlike Hoopla, which offers immediate downloads, Libby and Overdrive operate on a waiting list system. This raises a critical question for library patrons: do they prefer immediate access or a more cost-effective option?

Currently, the West Bend Library has budgeted approximately $25,000 for Hoopla this year. However, board members are weighing whether these funds could be better allocated to other resources that patrons are requesting. The future of Hoopla remains uncertain as the board considers the feedback from other libraries and the evolving needs of their community.

As the board continues to deliberate, the outcome of these discussions will significantly impact the library's offerings and the level of service provided to patrons in West Bend.