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Streaming Video and Audio: Public Streaming Options

A guide to selecting and using streaming video and audio resources available through the University at Buffalo Libraries.
Last Updated: Apr 17, 2024 10:05 AM

Public Streaming Options

Some films are not available via institutional streaming services like Kanopy or Swank.  If this is the case, public streaming services (commercial companies) should be considered.  Streaming services such as Netflix, Amazon Prime, Hulu, Google play, ITunes, etc. charge a monthly subscription fee, minimal rental fee or offer free trial subscriptions. They do not offer institutional or Library subscriptions, therefore, users must use their personal accounts to view films.  Try searching the site: Justwatch.com to determine public streaming options. Please check the specifics within the license agreement you agreed to with each company before showing any videos from your personal accounts.   This article from Troy University explains why using your personal subscription video services is governed by the license, or Terms of Use, you agreed to when you subscribed to the service. Individual licenses per product or subscription override Fair Use.