When showing a movie or video in a face-to-face classroom for instructional purposes, you may be covered by the “face-to-face teaching exemption” as described in 17 U.S.C. §110(1).
β Allowed without a license:
β οΈ Not allowed under this exemption:
π‘ Tip: If you want to invite non-enrolled students or host a public viewing, you’ll need public performance rights.
Want to host a movie night or invite the larger NWACC community?
Youβll need to obtain public performance rights. The Library can help!
Licensing fees vary based on:
π‘ Tip: Most requests are handled by email and are affordable for small, non-ticketed events.
π§ library@nwacc.edu
Streaming a film in an online class isn’t automatically allowed. You must consider fair use or seek licensing.
What to do:
π‘ Tip: Submit requests at least 30 days in advance. Costs for feature films typically start around $250/year.
Streaming rights and fair use decisions can be tricky. The Library team are here to support you.
We can:
π§ library@nwacc.edu
π Return to Explore Copyright
π Updated July 2025