Business Subject Guide — Videos

The UConn Library provides access to tens of thousands of streaming videos through our catalog. Additionally, faculty can request an individual stream that is not yet in our collection if it is necessary for a course. The Library will make every effort to license the stream if available and within budget. Please submit a request to purchase. It can take up to three weeks to process a streaming request, longer for a request that requires a search for the rights holder. Please plan accordingly.

The best way to find streaming videos is to search the Library's catalog.

• Go to the library catalog and conduct your search.
• Use Refine my results to choose Availability = Full Text Online and Resource Type = Video Recordings

How much does it cost for the Library to acquire an individual?

On average, a non-studio-produced streaming video, such as a documentary, costs $150 per year and $300 for three years for unlimited use by UConn users. Major studio films average $250 per year. If a stream is available in perpetuity and the Library deems the investment cost-effective, the Library will purchase a perpetual license. Perpetual streams can range from $500 - $800.

How do I access my requested stream?

• You will receive access to your stream within three business days of order confirmation.
• A link to the stream will be forwarded to you upon receipt.
• The stream will be available in the Library's catalog within three business days of access notice.

How long will my requested stream be available?

Unless otherwise specified, an individual stream is licensed for one year (from time of request). This end date will be noted in the Library's catalog.

How many streams may I request?

The Library has subscribed to various models of access for streaming videos. Once you make a request, our staff will assist you in acquiring your materials within budget. If we are unable to provide all needed materials, we will suggest alternatives.

How will I know if my requested stream is still available?

The Library endeavors to track individual subscriptions/licenses, but due to the increased demand for streaming video, we may not be able to contact you when a stream expires. The best practice is to make note of the expiration date provided in the library catalog and confirm access prior to each semester. Contact lib.acquisitions@uconn.edu to request renewal.

How will I know if a stream I assigned from a subscription streaming video collection (see below) is still available?

The Library does not always have control over the titles in a large aggregated collection, especially Academic Video Online. Distributors may pull their content from these platforms at any time. If you are assigning streams from these collections, the Library may be able to purchase the stream so you do not lose access. Please forward these purchase requests to lib.acquisitions@uconn.edu. It is best practice to check access prior to each semester.

How will I know if a stream I assigned from a library-owned streaming collection (see below) is still available?

The Library purchases streaming collections and single streams in perpetuity if available for purchase and when practical. (See a list of Library-owned collections below.) To confirm if  a stream is owned in perpetuity, contact  lib.acquisitions@uconn.edu. As there can be the occasional access issues with purchased titles, it is best practice to check access prior to each semester.

What types of streams can be added to the University’s Kaltura platform?

The Library uses the University’s Kaltura service to stream licensed videos that are not available on a third-party platform. For example, an independent producer may sell  a digital site license that allows us to stream their video in a password-protected environment. They will forward a digital file or give us permission to create one from a DVD. These videos can be viewed via the Library’s UConn Kaltura Streaming Video collection, and are added to the Library's catalog.