Faculty Resources

Effective with Summer Session I, 2025, Iona University Libraries will provide access to Kanopy videos via a mediated model.  A "mediated model" means that access to films requires submitting a request to the library for review and approval before a film can be viewed, rather than the film being immediately available for viewing and triggering a license that costs $150.  The reason for the switch to the mediated model is to ensure that funds are available for films required to support the curriculum.   

As in the past, films aren’t purchased from Kanopy nor does Kanopy follow a "Netflix" model where all films are included for one price.  Instead, Iona University pays up to $150 per title to license a film from Kanopy for one year or up to $350 per title for three years.  At the end of that time, another license fee is required to provide access.  

With this new model, we are asking you to request a film once your syllabus is complete and if needed, mid-semester, a minimum of 5 business days in advance of the date assigned for viewing.  We encourage you to check on the availability of titles for your course before every semester.  Previously licensed titles will be available for streaming until their licenses expire, at which point approval will be required for license renewals.  

Film requests will be reviewed in the order they are received so please submit film requests as early as possible.  The library asks that departments review and select films that can be viewed in multiple courses, allowing the Kanopy budget to go even further.  

FAQs

How do I request a Kanopy title that isn’t currently available to be added for course viewing?   

Option 1: Request a title through the Kanopy platform 

Recommended for singles title or if you prefer to browse/navigate the platform. 

1. Go to Kanopy 

2. Click on the video title of interest. 

3. If the “Request Access” form pops up, it means that title is currently unlicensed.  Fill out the form and hit “submit.” 

4. A librarian will contact you with further instructions for approval. 

Option 2: Request a title through email 

Recommended for multiple titles at one time.  

Send an email directly to your library liaison. In your message, please include the following: 

1. Kanopy Title(s) Requested 

2. Course Number and Section 

3. Date students will be required to view the film or date film will be shown in class.  

4. Will the film need to be used in future semesters?  If so, when?  Film licenses are granted for either 12 months or 36 months.  

I want to show a Kanopy streaming video title in one of my classes.  Will it be available after Iona switches to the “mediated” model?   

Yes.  We are not eliminating any Kanopy videos, we are simply requiring instructors request access to videos at least 5 business days prior to when they are needed for a course. Once a title has been licensed, access to the title will remain available via the Kanopy platform for 12 or m36 months  (depending on the license) from the date of activation.  We will extend or re-license titles for class use when requested.  

Does the library have other options for streaming films? 

Yes.  Kanopy is the largest platform and is dedicated to supporting the curriculum.  Other options for accessing streaming videos are listed and available off the library database page.  You can also search for relevant video content in our library catalog.

What does a student do if they need video content for research or to complete a project? 

The students should contact the library at libanswers.iona.edu.  A librarian will reach out and work with the student to locate the relevant resources.  

A film I need for my class isn’t listed in Kanopy, what do I do? 

If the film you need to screen for your course is not available on the Kanopy platform, please reach out to your library liaison.  The library will make every effort to secure access to the film from another vendor.  

REMINDER: Access to Kanopy Films may expire between one to three years after activation.  If you plan on using a previously licensed film, please check Kanopy to ensure it is still available or email your library liaison.