Max number of loop devices OR "efficient search of Debian documentation"

[Richard Owlett <rowlett@cloud85.net>]

My general question is "How to search for a particular particle 
of information that you've seen SOMEWHERE in the reams of 
information available as formal documentation, web pages, mailing 
lists, etc."

My current instance is attempting to modify the max number of 
loop devices. One pellet of Google buckshot reminded me that it 
can be reset for the next re-boot under /etc/modprobe.d . But I 
want to reset it on the fly.
Other pellets hit postings:
   that were over ten years old
   where post did not seem to agree with relevant man page
   post's author commented that he though solution might be of 
form ...

Suggestions?
TIA