Indiana University Libraries Moving Image Archive Screening Room : Copyright and Screening Permissions
Important Notes on Copyright & Screening Permissions
Public Screening Rights + Associated Costs:
Media obtained through purchase, rental, streaming services, or library borrowing typically includes licenses for private/home viewing only. Educational exemptions under Copyright Act Section 110(1) typically apply to classroom teaching only, not public screenings. Any public screening requires separate public performance rights, regardless of:
- Audience size
- Whether admission is charged
- Educational context
- Non-profit status
For each screening, the host must secure appropriate public performance rights. Typical costs range from $300-$950 per screening for commercial titles from major distributors such as:
Independent and archival films may have different licensing structures and costs. Rights for these materials must be negotiated directly with the copyright holder. While IULMIA SR staff can provide guidance on identifying rights holders, all licensing costs remain the responsibility of the screening organizer.
Some films may be available in the public domain or with Creative Commons licenses that permit public screenings. Documentation of such rights should be provided to IULMIA SR when scheduling the screening.