I Built a 25,000-Disc Netflix You Can Use for Free

Summary

The creator introduces Nomad Library, a free website that presents movies from public-library catalogs in a streaming-service-style interface. Its aim is to make library DVDs and Blu-rays easier to discover and borrow—as an alternative to paying for streaming subscriptions or buying movies.

Features and how to use it

• Enter a link to your library’s catalog to browse its movies. Libraries using BiblioCommons can provide direct access to their cataloged shelves. For other systems, the site may show popular titles with a button to search for them in the library’s catalog.
• Browse movie covers and filter by format (Blu-ray, DVD, or games), genre, and release year. You can also sort by rating.
• Open a title to view its trailer and IMDb page without switching tabs. An “available now” filter shows items ready for pickup.
• Import an IMDb or Letterboxd wishlist to check which titles your library has. In the creator’s test, 42 of 61 list entries matched, and 33 were available only on DVD.
• Use title buttons to check out, reserve, or join a queue. Borrowing is completed through the library’s own system. On phones, the site can also be saved as a web app.

Access, privacy, and limitations

The creator says the site works with libraries in the US and Canada, but catalog systems vary and the site is still being developed. Library records may show the disc’s release year rather than the movie’s original release year. For example, The Shining appeared as 2010 in the creator’s catalog.

The site can be used without an account. The creator says it does not collect or store users’ library-card details or PINs; checkout and reservation actions take place through the library. Depending on local rules, library cards may work across multiple library systems, materials may be mailed, or an interlibrary loan may be available.

Analysis and requests to viewers

The creator reports that their library has about 1,700 Blu-rays, with 162 on hand when the video was prepared, and says most materials were not currently checked out. They argue that library collections are underused and encourage viewers to use their library cards.

The creator also requests polite reports of unsupported libraries or technical problems, including the library name and catalog link, as well as suggestions for improving the site.

Guide points

1. Find and paste your library catalog link into Nomad Library.
2. Browse or filter by format, genre, year, or availability.
3. Check a title’s trailer and details, then use the library’s checkout or reservation process.
4. Try importing an IMDb or Letterboxd list, and check with your library about cross-county borrowing, mail delivery, or interlibrary loans.

Main speaker/source: The creator of Nomad Library, speaking on the Nomad Over Normal channel. The video also describes catalog information and borrowing services provided by public libraries.