If you plan to show a movie or TV show in an online class, at a public event, or in any setting where access is not limited to enrolled students, you’ll need public performance rights (PPR). Some library streaming services (like Kanopy and Alexander Street Press) include PPR, while others require a separate request. Personal streaming services (Netflix, Hulu, etc.) do not allow public screenings.
Obtaining Public Performance Rights for films is relatively easy. If the library does not already retain rights, various companies can be contacted with no more than an email or phone call.
It is best to begin your research as early as possible -- give yourself at least 2 weeks lead time. You will need to search for the contact information of the person(s) and/or company(ies) involved who hold the rights for the film.
Some companies to contact to secure PPR:
While fees vary, PPR licenses are generally between $200-400 per showing.
If none of the above has the film, you can check the company credits on the Internet Movie Database and visit the distributor's website to locate contact information.
Using short clips, documentaries, or historical works is more likely to qualify as fair use. However, streaming highly creative works (such as feature films and scripted TV shows) has stronger copyright protections and is unlikely to be covered.
Example: Showing a short scene from a documentary for class discussion may qualify as fair use. Streaming an entire feature film for an online course typically does not.
"Limitations on exclusive rights: Fair use" offers a set of factors to consider when using copyrighted work for teaching or research.
Reminder: not all educational use is fair use. If you have any questions or concerns, please speak with your subject librarian for more guidance.
