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stream thousands of movies for free via New York & Brooklyn Public Libraries

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New York City’s public libraries have long been a free video store (and record store) alternative for those in the know, and now it’s even an alternative to streaming services. Starting Friday, August 4, anyone with a New York or Brooklyn Public Library Card can have access to thousands of films — including around 400 from The Criterion Collection (like Eraserhead, 8 1/2, Grey Gardens and more). Some details via Gothamist:

  • Streaming is via nypl.kanopystreaming.com, or bklynlibrary.kanopystreaming.com, or access the site via the Library’s Articles & Databases page. With your library card number and PIN you’ll need to create a sign-in.
  • You can watch up to 10 movies a month with your NYPL card, and up to six with your BPL, and once you start a film you will have three days to watch. Videos have closed captions, subtitles, transcripts and are compatible with assitive technology.
  • You can view via most devices, including smartphones, tablets, laptops/desktops and smart TVs.

If you don’t have a NYPL card you can get one instantly here and visit BPL for more info on a card from them.

Their selection includes loads of music films, including A Hard Day’s Night, Gimme Shelter, Decline of Western Civilization, Don’t Look Back, and lots more.