Copyrighted films are not automatically licensed for public performance (showing a film to a group of people in a public space). 

• Obtaining PPR means that the film's copyright holder receives compensation beyond the purchase price the library paid for the film.
• The CCAD Packard Library is NOT responsible for obtaining PPR or paying for any performance fees for library-owned films.
• That is the responsibility of the academic department or campus organization sponsoring the event.
• However, librarians are available to assist individuals and groups in identifying the rights holder.

Copyright law (USC 17§101) states a performance is public if it is in a public space or if it is in any place if "a substantial number of persons outside of a normal circle of a family and its acquaintances" is gathered there.

CCAD classrooms, meeting rooms, auditoriums and dorm lounges are considered public spaces.

The Teaching Exception:

Copyright law (USC 17§110) makes exceptions to public performances that take place in face-to-face teaching activities of a nonprofit educational institution; therefore, faculty and students can freely view a film that takes place in a CCAD classroom and is used for instructional purposes in the class and is only open to students enrolled in that class.

1. Determine who the copyright holder is.

• Search the library catalog for publisher and distributor information.
• Search WorldCat for newer formats of film. Copyright holder will likely be included.
• Check the IMBd database for "Company Credits"
• Search U.S. Copyright Office database of registered copyright holders.

2. Google the name of the copyright holder, or use a directory like Switchboard to find current contact information.
3. Document your contacts and keep records of all related correspondence.
4. Additionally, there are Copyright Licensing Agents that make available PPR:

• Swank Motion Pictures
• Criterion Pictures