Copyright Basics

Classroom Use FAQ

Can I post a PDF of an article to Canvas or similar site?

Unless explicit permission from the copyright holder is obtained, only permalinks to articles should be shared on Blackboard for students to access. If you are linking to a library resource, check out our guide on Persistent Linking. 

Can I show a film in my class?

The answer to this question depends on whether the class meets in-person or online, how much of the film will be shown to the class, and the type of event. While some uses will fall under fair use, it is recommended to try to obtain permission from the copyright holder or obtain Public Performance Rights. Films in the public domain may be shown.

If your class is face-to-face and you are looking to show parts or the entirety of the film, you are likely able to do so without Public Performance Rights as long as the following criteria are met:

• The film will be shown in a classroom at a non-profit educational institution as part of the course curriculum 
• The film will only be shown to students registered for the class
• The copy of the film was legally obtained
• Note: Streaming films from sites such as Netflix, HBO Max, etc. may require additional permissions. Check with the streaming service directly.

If your class is online and you are looking to show parts or the entirety of the film, you may be able to do so, but the laws are stricter. The TEACH Act amendment to the Copyright Act, codified at § 110(2), permits the performance of a reasonable and limited portion of films in an online classroom, which means that using clips or portions of a film or video is preferable. You may also rely upon fair use for showing films in an online course, although showing an entire film online may not constitute fair use.

How does Interlibrary Loan (ILL) work with copyright?

Copyright law states that ILL articles are exclusively to be used for "private study, scholarship, or research" [17 USC S.108 (d)(1)]. In order to be in compliance with the law, articles received through ILL must not be shared with other users nor be posted online or placed on reserve or as part of a course pack or reading list.

This page will be continuously updated as questions are asked. Have general questions about copyright? View the United States Copyright Office's FAQ page.