Section 4

RESTRICTIONS ON SHOWING ENTERTAINMENT VIDEOS IN THE RESIDENCE HALLS

Copyright law dictates that the University must obtain the public performance rights for any video shown in public spaces in the residence halls, even if there is no admissions charge. The courts have ruled that lounge space in college dorms is considered a public space.

It is a copyright infringement to go to a video store, rent a video and show it in a residence hall lounge (private viewing in your room is allowed, as long as it is not an advertised Housing program). It is also illegal to show personal copies of commercial videos in public spaces in the residence halls.

Penalties for copyright infringements range from $500 to $20,000. The University will not support any staff who violate copyright law in the event that legal action is initiated. Further, staff should not allow building equipment to be used to view videos not covered by the University’s public performance license. In conjunction with copyright policy, staff may not use activity fees to pay for video rentals.

The RLRC has a limited selection of videos, which you may legally show in residence halls. To reserve RLRC movies, call or visit the RLRC; you may make reservations in advance.

To order a movie that is not currently available through the RLRC, contact Swank Motion Pictures, 800-876-3344. The cost generally ranges from $375-$500 per film but may be more or less depending on program size, release date and popularity.