How Kanopy Works

Kanopy is free for library patrons to use, but it is not free for the library. Each time a film is viewed, the library is charged by Kanopy. To help manage costs fairly and sustainably, usage is limited.

  • Each patron receives up to 10 credits per month, or until the library’s monthly quota is reached

  • Most films cost 2–5 credits to watch

  • Once you start a film, you have 72 hours to watch it

Some titles are marked as Credit Free Viewing, meaning they do not count against your monthly limit.

Kanopy Kids and The Great Courses work a bit differently. When you start a title in either collection, you receive 30 days of unlimited viewing for that specific series.

These limits allow the library to offer Kanopy to the whole community while staying within our budget.

Public Performance Rights (PPR)

Some films on Kanopy include Public Performance Rights (PPR). This means they may be shown publicly for educational or non commercial purposes, such as:

  • Community discussions

  • Classroom use

  • Library or nonprofit programs

  • Group screenings hosted by organizations

Films that include PPR will be clearly labeled within Kanopy. Licensing terms can vary by title, so we encourage groups or organizations to review the specific film details before planning a screening.

If you are unsure whether a film includes public performance rights, or would like help identifying appropriate titles, please contact the library. We are happy to help guide you.

Logging In

To get started:

  1. Visit Kanopy using the link below

  2. Select Greensboro Free Library as your library

  3. Enter your library card number

Your library card number was sent to you by email when you registered for your card. If you need help locating it, please contact the library at info@greensborofreelibrary.org or call 802 533 2531.

Access Kanopy

Kanopy for Kids and Families

Kanopy Kids offers a safe, easy to use environment with educational films, story adaptations, and children’s programming. Parents and caregivers can:

  • Browse content created specifically for young viewers

  • Set a PIN to keep children within the Kanopy Kids section

This makes Kanopy a flexible option for families looking for quality screen time.

A Shared Community Resource

Kanopy is one of several digital services the library budgets for each year. By using it thoughtfully, patrons help ensure that this resource remains available to the entire community.

If you enjoy Kanopy and are able to do so, donations to the library help support digital services like this one, along with books, programs, and technology access.