(Image provided, Porter County Public Library System (PCPLS) )
In Porter County, the Porter County Public Library System says it saw a record number of digital checkouts in 2025 — nearly half a million. A news release says that’s over 1.5 times more than the physical checkouts recorded at their busiest branch. Digital offerings include e-books, e-audiobooks, magazines, and movies, accessible 24/7 through apps. The system has five branches – Hebron, Kouts, Portage, South Haven, and Valparaiso. Porter County Public Library System (PCPLS) also says since 2022, it has been part of the Indiana Digital Library consortium, a partnership with other Indiana libraries that allows for shared digital materials, saving money and resources. PCPLS readers check out over 1,000 digital items per day.
“Digital checkouts at this scale show how library use is evolving and how PCPLS continues to evolve with it,” shared PCPLS Director Jesse Butz. “By investing in strong digital collections, we’re making sure our patrons can access high-quality materials in the ways that work best for their lives. Whether someone is commuting, caregiving, or learning on their own schedule, the library is there for them anytime, anywhere.” To get started, sign up for a library card at your local PCPLS branch and download the Libby or Hoopla app, the library system said. For further assistance, reach out to your local branch. For more information visit pcpls.org .
