Mesa’s libraries are launching a new way for people to download movies, music and audiobooks without having to set foot in a library building. Hoopla Digital, a Netflix-like service which caters to library systems, allows users to check out digital materials by streaming them from their computer or downloading them to a smartphone.
“We’re committed to exploring new digital services for our patrons that will advance learning and knowledge. So, then, we just decided this was a product that we maybe wanted to explore offering," said Mesa Public Library spokeswoman Liz Costanzo-Lee. "Plus, it’s a pretty cool thing, being able to download and stream on your mobile device or personal computer.”
The service is open to residents of Maricopa County with a current Mesa library card. The new on-demand resource will allow users to view current availability of media materials and when a wanted item will become available.
Mesa starts the service this week, but 13 other Arizona cities have already incorporated digital library service in January, including Apache Junction, Phoenix, Maricopa, and Casa Grande public libraries.