The Library has subscribed to “Entertainment Use Rights” licenses with Audio Cine and Criterion, allowing broader viewing than just classroom use. This can include movie nights and other non-educational events for UNBC student clubs, student associations, departments and other UNBC groups.

You may show videos for non-educational purposes if: 

• The film is covered by the Audio Cine or Criterion licenses. Use the search bars on the websites to see if your desired film is included in their catalogues. Please note that we cannot access Audio Cine or Criterion's streaming services.
• The film is free. Charity uses are allowed, but only if cost is purely by donation. 
• The primary audience is UNBC students, staff or faculty
• Any advertising targets the university (Campus media, not off-campus)
• A legally obtained copy of the film is used. The video can be bought or borrowed, including from a library. Pirated copies are not permitted. Ask ITS about equipment for playing the film.

The Criterion license covers indoor and outdoor campus screenings. For the Audio Cine collection, if you want an outdoor screening, please contact the Library Copyright office. Not all film studios in that collection allow for outdoor screenings, so payment may be necessary. 

Anything else is not covered and separate entertainment rights will need to be purchased or acquired. Please contact Library Copyright for assistance arranging this. 

UNBC events

Under the conditions described above, films from the Audio Cine or Criterion catalogues can be shown immediately. Films outside of these catalogues may require additional licensing or permissions. Please check with the Copyright Office.

Public events

If you wish to open an event to the general public, see the information in the Public Screenings section of this guide. Public screenings are not covered under the Audio Cine and Criterion licences.

Barbara Willmer, the Library Technical Assistant for Copyright, can be reached at libcopyright@unbc.ca or (250)960-6057. She can answer questions about showing films on campus, and help liaise with copyright holders if needed.