The Straight Download

Hoopla Digital

A podcast for library professionals and anyone interested in the digital publishing industry. In each episode, Hoopla’s Jeff Jankowski and Ann Ford dive into current trends and share valuable insights.

  1. Jul 2

    Episode 16: The Straight Download — One Year After Connecticut's eBook Law

    Recorded live from ALA Annual 2026 in Chicago, this episode tackles one of the biggest challenges facing libraries today: the future of eBook access. Ann and Jeff are joined by Ellen Paul of the Connecticut Library Consortium to examine the impact of Connecticut's groundbreaking eBook law, escalating digital content costs, and the growing national movement for reform. It's a timely conversation about advocacy, collection development, and how libraries can build sustainable digital collections for the future.

  2. Jun 5

    Episode 15: The Straight Download — AI, Access & Accountability

    AI is transforming digital collections faster than ever. In our latest episode, Ann and Jeff sit down with Matt Schimmoeller, Hoopla’s Director of Digital Operations to explore what the surge in AI generated eBooks means for libraries. They also discuss how Hoopla is addressing the challenge. Tune in for a conversation on access, accountability, and what comes next.

  3. May 15

    Episode 14: The Straight Download: Activating Digital for Programs & Outreach

    As summer reading season ramps up, Ann and Jeff are joined by Storm Hawthorne and Mandy Decker to explore how libraries can transform digital collections into powerful tools for programming, outreach, and equity. The conversation highlights practical strategies for increasing visibility, integrating digital resources into experiences, and meeting patrons where they are, turning always on access into deeper engagement whose impact can be felt throughout the summer and well beyond.

  4. Apr 10

    Episode 13: The Straight Download: Collaboration That Counts

    Please note: this episode contains a few audio issues.   Recorded live from the Public Library Association Conference floor, Episode 13 of The Straight Download features a timely conversation about the future of public libraries during a period of cultural, technological, and political change. Hosts Ann Ford and Jeff Jankowski are joined by Jamar Rahming, CEO of the Cuyahoga County Public Library and incoming President of PLA. The episode explores how libraries can use digital platforms as meaningful engagement channels while underscoring the need for stronger alignment between libraries and vendors. Through deeper collaboration and strategic data partnerships, both can better navigate shifting patron expectations and an evolving publishing landscape.

  5. Apr 3

    Episode 12: The Straight Download: Demystifying the Digital Content Landscape

    Recorded live from the Public Library Association Conference in Minneapolis, this episode of Straight Download features hosts Ann and Jeff in a wide-ranging conversation with publishing journalist Andrew Albanese, editor-in-chief of Publishing Perspectives and founder of Words & Money. Together, they dig into the economics of digital publishing, the sustainability of library e-content models, and the growing tension between libraries, publishers, and data-driven decision-making. From metered licenses and holds ratios to legislative pressure and long-tail discovery, the discussion explores what a healthier digital ecosystem could look like and what it will take to get there.

  6. Mar 6

    (Episode 11) The Straight Download: Equity‑Centered Leadership & Digital Access

    In this episode, Moe Hosseini Ara, City Librarian of Toronto Public Library, joins Ann Ford and Jeff Jankowski for a powerful conversation on equity-driven leadership and the future of digital access. Together, they unpack how TPL is advancing equity across one of North America’s busiest systems—from expanding community outreach and supporting newcomers to reimagining services and strengthening digital inclusion with platforms like Hoopla.

  7. Feb 6

    Episode 10: The Straight Download — Digital Media's Rapid Evolution

    From COVID lockdown streaming spikes to today’s subscription fatigue, digital media has reshaped patron expectations fast. Users didn’t just switch platforms; they raised the bar. This episode unpacks the biggest shifts across eBooks, audiobooks, and video from 2020 to 2026, and how habits shaped by Netflix, Spotify, TikTok, Kindle, and Apple TV+ now define what people expect from libraries: instant access, smart discovery, and trusted, ad‑free experiences.

  8. Jan 9

    Episode 9: The Straight Download on Where Library Service is Headed in 2026

    Ann and Jeff kick off the year with an insightful conversation with Roosevelt Weeks, Director of the Fort Bend County Library System. Together, they explore the key forces shaping library priorities and services in the year ahead. From funding challenges and political dynamics to evolving community needs and the growing demand for digital access, this discussion takes a deep dive into what’s next for libraries.

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About

A podcast for library professionals and anyone interested in the digital publishing industry. In each episode, Hoopla’s Jeff Jankowski and Ann Ford dive into current trends and share valuable insights.

Information

  • Creator
    Hoopla Digital
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    21
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Copyright 2025 All rights reserved.
  • Show Website
    The Straight Download

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