In all instances, use of photographic or film equipment within the Libraries:
- Must not interfere with the study, research, privacy or safety needs of Libraries’ users.
- Must not violate any Carnegie Mellon University policies, rules or regulations.
- Must not hinder access to exits, stairways, corridors or doorways.
- May sometimes be restricted during midterms, final examinations or any other event at the discretion of the External Relations Office.
- Must include written consent from any individual who is included or is the subject of the photograph, video or film. The Libraries will not be liable for any injuries or equipment damage incurred during photography or filming in any Libraries space.
There are three different scenarios around photographing or filming:
- Personal Use: Visitors to the Carnegie Mellon University Libraries are welcome to take photographs or videos for their personal use without formal authorization, so long as staff and users are not inconvenienced in any way.
- Carnegie Mellon University Affiliates – Students, Faculty and Staff: Any photography or filming requests by university affiliates, including students working on academic projects, must be approved by the Libraries’ External Relations office. This includes those who may be using lights or tripods, requesting access to a specific room, conducting interviews or shifting library materials or furniture. Any questions can be emailed to Shannon Riffe, Associate Dean of External Relations at sriffe@andrew.cmu.edu. Keep in mind the following:
- Submit the request to photograph or film using this form two business days in advance;
- You will receive approval via email from the Libraries’ External Relations team.
- Be prepared to present the approved request email to staff if asked.
- Commercial, News or Other External Organization: Any external agencies wishing to film for commercial or news media purposes should contact Carnegie Mellon University’s central office of University Communications and Marketing (UCM) at marketing-info@andrew.cmu.edu. UCM will coordinate with the Libraries’ External Relations office.
Responsibilities of the filmmaker, photographer, and/or film crew
- Return library facilities to the original condition found before filming started. Libraries staff will not be responsible for moving furniture, setting up film shots, or assisting with the film setup or take down.
- Bear of the cost for the repair of any damage incurred.
- The filmmaker/photographer shall not present any individual in a defamatory manner or violate any individual’s expectation of privacy.
Right to Terminate
Carnegie Mellon University Libraries reserves the right to terminate any photography, videotaping or filming that causes an undue disturbance, violates Libraries or university policies or regulations or endangers the health and safety of participants, patrons and staff.
By following these guidelines, filming entities can help ensure that their activities are conducted in a manner that respects the library's mission and the rights of its users.
Questions? Contact the Libraries External Relations office at sriffe@andrew.cmu.edu.