Mid-Hudson Library System (MHLS) has secured a group discount for a physical media license with SWANK Movie Licensing USA (MLUSA) for member libraries. New this year SWANK also has a streaming license. These are two separate licenses with different pricing models. Your library can purchase one or both licenses through this opportunity.
Libraries that wish to purchase a new license (physical media and/or streaming) or renew (for physical media only) an existing license from SWANK Movie Licensing USA through MHLS should complete this form by July 25. MHLS will invoice your library for the cost of the license or licenses based on the rates provided by MLUSA. Please contact Kerstin Cruger to receive the price for your physical media license discount. Streaming license pricing is listed below. Licenses take effect in September.
SWANK Movie Licensing USA (MLUSA):
- Information including what movies and titles are covered is available on their website.
- Rates for each library based on service population are available from Kerstin Cruger at MHLS. Please note, MHLS libraries that have maintained a long-standing and current license with MLUSA may have a lower rate than the most recently offered rate. If those libraries continue to license through Movie Licensing USA directly, joining the group-buy will not provide a better rate.
- MHLS will invoice your library for the cost of the license.
- If you’re not sure whether you are part of previous MLUSA group buys with MHLS you can contact Kerstin Cruger.
NEW – SWANK Streaming Service
- Licensed for Group Showings. Unlike consumer streaming, this platform is created specifically for library group settings. The streaming platform offers instant access to a library of top films, removing the hassle of physical media.
- Information including what movies and titles are covered is available on their website.
- Pricing
| Service Population | 1 Year Streaming Cost |
| 1-45k | $400 |
| 45k-100K | $500 |
| 100k+ | $600 |
- This is a separate license from the physical media license. You can purchase a streaming license without a physical media license.
- MHLS will invoice your library for the cost of the license.
To screen movies at library programs and other library events in compliance with copyright regulations, the library must secure the necessary public performance license. In some cases, more than one license may be required to secure the rights for all the movies and programs the library plans to screen. There are two commonly used companies that provide this type of license, SWANK Movie Licensing USA (MLUSA) and Motion Picture Licensing Corporation (MPLC), and libraries should be sure that the licenses they’ve purchased secure the rights needed.
Motion Picture Licensing Corporation (MPLC)
- Information including what movies and titles are covered by this license is available by contacting MPLC directly. Libraries interested in purchasing a license from MPLC should contact MPLC directly.
