Public library app 'Hoopla' announced that it will now allow users to check out and view comic books via their mobile devices. Hoopla currently partners with local libraries to allow patrons to check out movies, music and books through its tablet or e-reader. Now patrons will have the opportunity to check out popular comic books as well.
The app operates as an online library service, which allows users to check out titles based on availability. After a patron has requested a title, they can view the comic book on their mobile device for a limited time. When the checkout period is up, the book will automatically disappear from the user's device. Patrons who opt for the new service will have access to a wide variety of comic books and graphic novels, including The Walking Dead and The Dark Knight.
The new service provides a free way to check out popular comics and graphic novels.
Digitized Comic Book Apps
This Company Allows Users to View Comic Books on Mobile Devices
Trend Themes
1. Digital Library Checkouts - The trend towards mobile device borrowing from libraries will continue to grow, with innovative apps and services emerging to cater to interest in mobile device applications for books.
2. Increase in Digital Comics Accessibility - The trend towards digital media expansion in the realm of graphic novels and comic books is on the rise, resulting in an increase in user consumption and need for mobile-friendly access.
3. Mobile Library-related Services - The rise of mobile libraries will lead to the growth of service providers looking to support the infrastructure, such as app designers, IT firms, and mobile device security professionals.
Industry Implications
1. Library Services - There is an opportunity for library software companies and other service providers to create innovative apps and services for mobile device borrowing.
2. Digital Publishing - The growing trend toward digital comics and graphic novels reinforces the need for digital publishers to consider cross-compatibility and mobile device optimization when creating new titles.
3. Mobile Device Security - As mobile device borrowing grows, there will be a greater demand for secure mobile device protection, offering opportunities for mobile device security experts to develop new services.