Streamed Media and Films: Public Performance Licenses

Films found in the library's streamed media collections do not include the rights for public performances. A public performance is defined by Copyright Law as:

To perform or display a work “publicly” means: to perform or display it at a place open to the public or at any place where a substantial number of persons outside of a normal circle of a family and its social acquaintances is gathered.”

For most college events, a Public Performance License is required. Seminole State College works with a vendor named Swank Motion Pictures that offers these licenses for a fee, dependent on the film, the size of the audience, and the purpose of the performance.

First things first - have you already decided on a film that you would like to show? Great! You are ready to move on to Step #2.

If you have not already decided on a film for your event, you may browse some of the current top films offered by Swank. It is not comprehensive, so if there are titles you are interested in, you will need to contact Swank to verify its availability. They work with many film companies, but they may not have performance rights available for every film. Swank recommends listing alternate choices when preparing your event.

Because every film has unique licensing requirements and costs, Swank will need to know some information about your event before they can give a price for your event. You will need to know the following:

• Audience Size: How many people are you expecting to attend the film?
• Date: When will you be showing the film?
• Location: Are you screening the film on campus? Is it outdoors or indoors? Is it open to the public or just college students?
• Purpose: This may or may not matter for each film, but are you showing the film for entertainment? As part of an educational event with college faculty involved?
• Admission: Will you charge for admission? Or is it free to attendees?
• Access: Do you own a copy of the film already as a DVD/BluRay? Or will you need to also purchase or rent the film for your event?

A detailed FAQ is provided about their services and the terms and conditions that apply. You may wish to review this prior to requesting a price quote.

If you would like to pursue a Public Performance License, you will need to contact the vendor directly. Because each film is handled uniquely, they will need to review your request in order to give you an accurate price. The license will be valid for a specific time and location only, so make sure to have your details prepared ahead of submitting a request.

You may contact our Seminole State College account manager with any specific about Swank films and licensing conditions:

• Meghan Hunkins: Senior Account Executive
  • Phone: 800.876.5577
  • Fax::314.909.0879
  • Email: mhunkins@swankmp.com

Attached below is Swank's form to formally purchase films for your event. You may also contact Swank online using their Request A Quote form.