It depends! In some situations, legal rights to show the film in public are required. These rights are called Public Performance Rights (PPR). Read on to learn more.

When would the film need PPR?

PPR are needed for...

• student clubs,
• film series,
• general lectures,
• and common dorm areas.

In what cases will the film not need PPR?

PPR are not needed to show a film...

• in class as part of face-to-face teaching as part of regular curricula,
• to view a DVD at home,
• view a DVD in a dorm room,
• or view a DVD for in-person instruction.

DVDs and PPR 

We have many DVDs with PPR.  Keep in mind, not all records reflect the PPR status; contact your subject librarian if you wish to screen a DVD for a campus event.  Most DVDs with PPR will be documentaries and educational films. 

Streaming Services and PPR

Some of our streaming films do have PPR. However, many do not, and it can be tricky to know where to look for confirmation.

To learn more, visit the Public Performance Rights library guide or reach out to your subject librarian.

For more information about our film collection and streaming services, visit the Film & Media Resources library guide.