Q. Can instructors show films from the library's streaming databases during a class?

For face-to-face teaching, instructors are able to show films from the library's streaming databases as part of normal instruction and the content is important to the educational objectives for the class. DVDs held by the library may also be used for face-to-face teaching.

For online classes, instructors are able to link or embed streaming films and music from the library's databases into their Canvas courses as long as they are important to the educational objectives of the class. The right to do so is based on a mix of the copyright law and Fair Use decisions made be individual instructors.

Films in their entirety may not be streamed over Zoom or other video conferencing services as part of a synchronous online class. Clips of films may be streamed if they are legally made or obtained and are judged fair use.

NOTE: Films available through personal accounts with streaming services like Netflix, Hulu, and Amazon may not be shown as part of a class, according to the license agreements for these services. Netflix has made some exceptions to this rule. Please see our page about using films in the classroom for more information.