Frequently Asked Questions

What is Kanopy?

Kanopy is the best video streaming service for quality, thoughtful entertainment. Find movies, documentaries, foreign films, classic cinema, independent films and educational videos that inspire, enrich and entertain. We partner with public libraries to bring you an ad-free experience that can be enjoyed on your TV, mobile phones, tablets and online.

How is Kanopy free for me?

Just as your library buys books to add to their collection for you to borrow, your library offers a variety of digital resources too - Kanopy is one of their more popular digital resources. Kanopy does not charge you because your library covers all associated costs, allowing you to watch for free with no ads.

Why do I need a library card to sign up?

Kanopy is only available through libraries, so you need to be a member of a participating library to start watching Kanopy. If you are a member of a participating public library, you can start watching by signing up with a valid public library card number and PIN/password.

What are play credits and how many do I receive through my library?

Play credits are used to play videos on Kanopy. You will receive 9 play credits per month through the Los Angeles Public Library. Each video will use 1 play credit each with the exception of those in Kanopy Kids. Once you press play on a video and a play credit has been used, you will have 3 days to view it as many times as you like without using another play credit. Your play credits will reset back to 9 on the 1st day of each month.

How do I get started?

Getting started is easy! Click here to enter your library card information. Follow the simple instructions to create your Kanopy account using your email address or Facebook/Google login and then start watching.

What is Kanopy Kids?