Your library card is a free, ad-free streaming subscription. Through apps called Kanopy and Hoopla, thousands of public libraries and universities let members stream movies, documentaries and TV shows at no cost. Here’s how to check if yours does and how to get started in about five minutes.
What are Kanopy and Hoopla?
Both are streaming platforms built for libraries. Your library pays for access, and you sign in with your library card number and PIN. There are no ads and no credit card.
| Kanopy | Hoopla | |
|---|---|---|
| Company | OverDrive | Midwest Tape |
| Ads | None | None |
| Strength | Indie, classic, foreign and documentary films | Movies and TV plus ebooks, audiobooks, comics and music |
| Limits | Monthly “tickets” set by your library | Monthly borrows set by your library |
| Kids section | Kanopy Kids (often unlimited) | Yes |
How to start watching on Kanopy
- Go to kanopy.com or download the Kanopy app on your phone, tablet or TV.
- Choose “Add library” and search for your public library or university.
- Enter your library card number and PIN.
- Create a Kanopy login so you can sign in on your TV.
- Browse and press play. Each film uses your library’s ticket allowance for the month.
How to start watching on Hoopla
- Download the Hoopla app or visit hoopladigital.com.
- Create an account with your email and select your library.
- Enter your library card number and PIN.
- Borrow a title; it stays available for a set number of days.
Don’t have a library card?
Most public libraries issue cards free to residents, and many let you apply online. Some libraries also offer cards to people who work or study in the area. Ask at the desk or check the library’s website.
Important 2026 update: some libraries are dropping Kanopy
Kanopy is still operating, but a number of US library systems—including Hennepin County in Minnesota and Harris County in Texas—have cancelled their subscriptions, citing rising, usage-based costs. If your library has dropped it, check whether it offers Hoopla instead, or whether a nearby library or your university provides access.
Tips to get the most from library streaming
- Save your monthly tickets for films you can’t find on free ad-supported services like Tubi.
- Use Kanopy Kids for children’s content—many libraries don’t count it against your limit.
- Kanopy is especially strong for film classes, foreign cinema and award-season documentaries.
- Hoopla’s limits reset each month, so plan bigger series around the reset date.
Prefer apps with no sign-up at all? Read our list of the best free legal movie streaming sites.
FAQ
Is Kanopy really free?
Yes, for you. Your library pays for the service, so there’s no charge and no ads.
Can I use Kanopy on my TV?
Yes. Kanopy and Hoopla have apps for popular streaming devices and smart TVs, and you can also cast from your phone.
Why can I only watch a few movies a month?
Libraries pay per use, so they set monthly limits to keep costs under control.
Last updated: October 13, 2026.