By Becky Gipson

Instead of algorithms, let Tulane Libraries’ Media Services curate your summer binge-watching experience. Check out Summer Binge Bunches—human-curated DVD bundles available on the 6th floor of Howard-Tilton Memorial Library.

What Is a Binge Bunch?

Inspired by the Binge Box concept popular at public libraries, a Binge Bunch is a curated set of 3–5 DVDs on a related topic or theme. You can check out all of them at once. Themes range from the cosmic ("Spaced Out") to the theatrical ("Broadway Smash") to the cozy ("A Little Cake with My Coffee"). Each one is thoughtfully assembled by a member of the Media Services team.

“The program grew out of a few converging ideas,” explains Head of Media Services Librarian lisa Hooper. “We get asked often enough if it's possible to browse our physical DVD collection, which, for better or worse, is organized and housed in a location designed for efficient storage and retrieval upon request but definitely not for browsing. Another thread is we have a lot of incredible content in our DVD collection that folks simply aren't seeing because the contemporary start and end point for our search is so often on our streaming platforms, so I wanted to literally put these films in front of people.”

 

The Human Touch

Unlike streaming algorithms that suggest based on your viewing history, Binge Bunches reflect the unique knowledge, taste, and enthusiasm of their curators.

They even created mystery binge bunches for those who want to be completely surprised. Media Services Library Associate Josh Windham combined his love of tea and detective fiction into a bundle for mystery fans.

“I'm a big tea drinker, but I also love a good detective story or mystery. Hence, combining those passions into a bundle was quite natural for me. Even as a kid growing up, I was fascinated by the dynamic detective duo of Sherlock Holmes & Dr. John Watson—who didn't want their own magnifying glass after learning about their brilliant investigation style?”

Windham’s "Spaced Out" sci-fi set includes certified classics, a spoof, and a scientific documentary on theories of space and matter. "I'm always trying to broaden my tastes," he says. "For some sets, we tried to creatively tie in a theme."

One of Hooper's personal favorites is "Anywhere but West." She feels this bundle of international cinema will "really surprise people."

When you check out a Binge Bunch, you're not just getting a stack of DVDs. You're getting a small window into what a colleague finds important, surprising, and delightful. Lisa notes, "Human-to-human connections are built even through this indirect method."

And don't forget the special features — something Windham points out is often entirely absent from streaming platforms.

A Chance to Discover (or Rediscover) the Collection

Tulane Libraries holds the largest academic library circulating DVD collection in Louisiana. The collection is international in scope, spanning a wide range of styles, formats, and subjects, supporting research and teaching across virtually every field. Summer Binge Bunches are designed to make that collection visible and browsable in ways its storage setup usually doesn't allow. Don’t have a DVD player? No worries, the library also has USB disc readers and one portable DVD / Blu-ray player that people can also check out with the splash card.

Beyond DVDs, the 6th floor is also home to a substantial CD and a modest LP collection, an extraordinary microfilm collection of unique historical titles not available online. The Creative Technology Lending Collection offers no-barrier access to microphones, digital cameras, GoPros, lighting equipment, and a growing selection of assistive technology.

If you've never been to the 6th floor, let Summer Binge Bunches be your reason to visit. While you're there, be sure to take in the views and check out the student-produced art installations.

Who Can Check One Out?

Summer Binge Bunches are available to anyone with an active Splash Card. The program is especially for students, staff, and faculty who are on campus throughout the summer. Bunches are available for browsing and checkout Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Bring your Splash Card to tap into the building and check one out.