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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Join us for a special retrospective as we celebrate Hoopla’s biggest achievements of 2025. From expanding BingePass and SeasonPass offerings for libraries to the creation of Instant bundles and forging new partnerships with organizations like the Urban Library Council, this year marked a bold step forward. We also advanced discoverability of the Hoopla collection and championed pricing advocacy—efforts that led to more Bonus Borrows and greater value for libraries and their communities. The year was all about empowering libraries and redefining digital engagement.

Hear directly from someone on the front lines of library advocacy. Ellen Paul, Executive Director of the Connecticut Library Consortium, joins us to share how libraries are protecting equitable access to eBooks and championing patron rights. 

The Straight Download Podcast isn’t exactly LeVar Burton Reads or The NYT Book Review Podcast. And it’s definitely not Joe Rogan asking authors if they believe in aliens.

But if you’re into libraries, digital strategy, and practical ideas that actually help them connect with and serve their communities—you might find it worth a listen.

Check out this clip and see what you think.

Libraries are grappling with shrinking catalogs, rising license costs, and unsustainable holds. Ann Ford and Jeff Jankowski share how libraries can regain control through smarter budgeting, streamlined operations, and stronger patron engagement.