Anyone Using Kanopy or Hoopla from their Library for Videos?

[Boglenaut]

I am finding it harder and harder to get specific Blu-Ray or DVDs from the library, so decided to research more modern options to check out stuff. I found my library supports 2 services: Kanopy and Hoopla.

https://www.kanopy.com/
https://www.hoopladigital.com/

Neither have apps supported by my brand of smart TV, but they do have iPhone apps. I would like to watch the shows on my TV, so I finally got around to figuring out how AirPlay works.

Kanopy - I downloaded the app and got it working with no problem. This works like a streaming service. You use your library card to log in and get 100 points/month, which is plenty. I was able to get AirPlay working with no issues so can watch shows on my TV from my phone. It doesn't work perfectly, but overall I am impressed with the technology. I don't know if it will have the catalog depth for the long term, but at least for the first 3 weeks I found some good shows to watch.

Hoopla - This does streaming and downloads. It works fine on my phone, but AirPlay to the TV does not work. I contacted their tech support,and they said they have been having problems with AirPlay. They had a list of things for me to do, but I am not really in the mood to go that deep just yet.

I am new to both services as well as the AirPlay technology, so if anyone has anything to add or correct, just let me know.

[gatorking]

I watch "Great Courses" and documentaries, usually on my desktop monitor.

[quantAndHold]

I had trouble with Hoopla and AirPlay several years ago. Not surprised to hear it isn’t fixed.

If your TV doesn’t have apps, you can get a Roku or FireTV that does.

[CAsage]

I second trying it with Roku. Roku has a cleaner IMO interface ... and it works just fine with Kanopy. I love how I can get free movies (10 per month) with my local library, and of course one can sign up for multiple libraries...... Between that and PBS Passport, I could watch for ages.

[CardinalRule]

I recently started using Kanopy, via a Roku app.

My library system issues 10 “tickets” at the beginning of each month, and that typically equates to 5 movies (2 tickets per).

It works well from a technology perspective, and there are some appealing titles, but the monthly limit is relatively low, at least for me. There is no limit on Kids content.

[JAZZISCOOL]

I have an LG smart TV. I also have an Amazon Fire Stick where I stream movies on Kanopy. It also has the Hoopla app (although I usually use my iPhone for that for audio.) Works pretty well, although Kanopy streaming can be a little funky sometimes. I really enjoy Kanopy's movie options though.

[surfinagin]

I get Hoopla through my local library, and watch movies on my laptop once in awhile.
Limit of 8 per month -never had an issue using Hoopla.

[argleflargle]

Hoopla works well for me on my laptop. Connect the laptop to the TV via HDMI and Hoopla is on the big screen!

[rockstar]

I use Hoopla on my ROKU. It's great for finding one offs that aren't on the services I'm currently subscribed to.

[gtrplayer]

I am finding it harder and harder to get specific Blu-Ray or DVDs from the library, so decided to research more modern options to check out stuff. I found my library supports 2 services: Kanopy and Hoopla.

https://www.kanopy.com/
https://www.hoopladigital.com/

Neither have apps supported by my brand of smart TV, but they do have iPhone apps. I would like to watch the shows on my TV, so I finally got around to figuring out how AirPlay works.

Kanopy - I downloaded the app and got it working with no problem. This works like a streaming service. You use your library card to log in and get 100 points/month, which is plenty. I was able to get AirPlay working with no issues so can watch shows on my TV from my phone. It doesn't work perfectly, but overall I am impressed with the technology. I don't know if it will have the catalog depth for the long term, but at least for the first 3 weeks I found some good shows to watch.

Hoopla - This does streaming and downloads. It works fine on my phone, but AirPlay to the TV does not work. I contacted their tech support,and they said they have been having problems with AirPlay. They had a list of things for me to do, but I am not really in the mood to go that deep just yet.

I am new to both services as well as the AirPlay technology, so if anyone has anything to add or correct, just let me know.

Kanopy, yes. Surprisingly good selection.

There is a bit of a groundswell of interest, led by Christopher Nolan, in keeping physical media around, due to recent instances of streaming services pulling movies that weren’t released on DVD, effectively making them disappear. If more filmmakers insist on people being able to purchase permanent copies, we may see DVD’s (or some alternative) make a comeback.

[Boglenaut]

Thanks for these excellent replies. It is good learning more about this topic.

[MoonOrb]

I've used both without trouble on Roku.

With a Roku you can also get access to plenty of ad-supported channels where you can watch things for free if you can tolerate the ads, so the modest investment in a Roku can greatly expand your universe of free viewing material.

[Retired1809]

I've listened to several audio books by Jack Bogle through Hoopla from my public library

[123]

We use Kanopy on our Roku. Kanopy's collection leans toward the artsy fare you're accustomed to finding at independent cinemas.