Otto G. Richter Library Filming and Photography Policy


Purpose

The purpose of this policy is to establish the terms and conditions under which library spaces, patrons, and staff may be used for still photography, filming, and/or video production. This policy applies to any person wishing to take still photography or film and is subject to the individual discretion of the Community Relations and Events department and any library departments that might be impacted by filming or photography.

 

Scope

This policy applies to Otto G. Richter Library and all associated departments. Other libraries may have their own policy.

 

Definitions

“University of Miami Community” - refers to University faculty, students, staff, and other authorized users.

“Film” – includes videography and video production, regardless of whether phones, cameras, or other equipment are used.

“The Library” – refers to Otto G. Richter Library and its associated departments.

 

Policy Statement

In order for a request to film or take photographs in the Library to be considered, the purpose of the project must directly relate to the Library’s programs, materials, and/or resources. Requests to film or take photographs unrelated to the Library’s programs, materials, or resources cannot be accommodated.

The Community Relations and Events department reviews requests on a case-by-case basis to ensure that the proposed activity does not interfere with study, research, privacy, or safety needs. Requests may require additional approval by the Dean’s Office for permission to be granted. Requests must be submitted in writing and at least three business days in advance. Written permission must be granted before any filming or photography can take place. The Library reserves the right to deny requests. Should permission be granted for filming, we kindly request that final products are shared for our internal library records.

Filming and photography can be scheduled from Monday to Friday from 9:00am to 6:00pm. Special permissions may be granted for filming or photographing library events outside of these designated hours.

If approved, the videographer, photographer, and assistants fulfilling the request must be escorted by a team member from the Community Relations or Events team on the day of the filming or photography.

Additional regulations:

  • The photographer or videographer is responsible for ensuring that their party does not disrupt the patrons, students, or staff of Otto G. Richter library.
  • The photographer or videographer is responsible for the recollection and maintenance of their own equipment.
  • The photographer or videographer may not move furniture, signs, etc. for their purposes unless given prior written permission by the Community Relations and Events team.
  • The Library reserves the right to cancel scheduled photography and videography sessions.
  • The Library reserves the right to remove any party that violates any rules, regulations, and policies of Otto G. Richter Library.

Recordings:

Students are expressly prohibited from recording any part of this course. Meetings of this course might be recorded by the University. A Student Consent for Class Recordings Form will be made available at the start of the course to be signed by enrolled students. Any recordings will be available to students registered for this class as they are intended to supplement the classroom experience. Students are expected to follow appropriate University policies and maintain the security of passwords used to access recorded lectures. Recordings may not be reproduced, shared with those not in the class, or uploaded to other online environments. If the instructor or a University of Miami office plans any other uses for the recordings, beyond this class, students identifiable in the recordings will be notified to request consent prior to such use.

 

Procedures

Written permission must be granted before any filming or photography can take place in Otto G. Richter Library. Unauthorized filming or photography is prohibited. Filming or photography requests will be considered in terms of their complexity and to what degree they may disrupt the activities of the Library.

For University of Miami Faculty, Staff and Students:

To request permission to film or take photographs at Otto G. Richter Library, contact the Library’s Community Relations and Events Department at (305) 284-8039 or library.events@miami.edu

Due to staffing limitations, student project requests cannot be accommodated at this time.

For Outside Media (unaffiliated with the University of Miami)

Requests from media unaffiliated with the University of Miami must first be sent to the University of Miami Communications for approval. Following this approval, you may then work with the Library’s Community Relations and Events Department to secure onsite accommodations.

University of Miami Communications can be contacted here:
https://news.miami.edu/for-the-media/index.html

If you have additional questions, please contact the University’s Office of Media Relations at 305-284-5500.

 

Community Relations and Events Contact Information

Department of Community Relations and Events
(305) 284-8039
library.events@miami.edu.

Date Approved

12-02-25 UML Public Services Policy Council

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