Armacost librarians have moved to a mediated model with Kanopy. Films needed by faculty for courses are the top priority at this time.
Films in Kanopy are leased for one year for $150 per title; the Armacost Library does not own them. In many cases, we can purchase a DVD for less than the price of a one-year license, or alternatively, identify alternative streaming options.
While Kanopy offers exceptional content, pricing has been difficult for libraries to sustain. See this article in Film Quarterly about the issue. Of course, these challenges are exacerbated by financial uncertainties during the pandemic; if this situation changes, we hope to resume greater access to streaming films with Kanopy in the future.
Can I still use Kanopy?
If you go to Kanopy you will only be able to play films for which we have already purchased a license. If we have not purchased a license, you will see a request form when you try to play the film.
What if a film I planned to use this semester is no longer available on Kanopy?
If you were planning to use a film that is not currently activated on Kanopy, or if the license for the film will expire before you need it, please contact your Library Liaison as soon as possible. Consider finding alternative media to use with your courses; or explore this list of other streaming media databases, including freely available options.
Requesting Films via Kanopy
If you choose a title for which we don't have a license, you may fill out the request form. Librarians will give priority consideration to films requested for courses. Please allow a week for us to process your request.
