Setting up
To get started, follow the steps below to start watching Kanopy on your Roku! To access the FAQs, click here.
- Create a Kanopy account
In order to watch Kanopy on your Roku device, you will need a Kanopy account that is connected to a subscribing library. If you don't already have one, learn how to create your Kanopy account here. - Set up your Roku
If you are new to Roku and have not yet set up your Roku device, please follow the Roku instructions. - Add Kanopy to your Roku
Once you have your Roku device and Kanopy account set up, add the Kanopy channel to your Roku by going to Streaming Channels > Search Channels, and search for Kanopy. Select Kanopy from the search results, then Add Channel. The Kanopy channel will now appear on your Roku’s home screen. - Link your Kanopy channel on Roku to your Kanopy profile
When you first open the Kanopy channel, you will be able to browse content, but not play the films. In order to play, you will need to link your Kanopy account. To do this:
- Select any film and press play. This will trigger the linking process and display further instructions on screen (outlined in the following steps).
- Go to kanopy.com/link using a computer or mobile device. If you are not signed into your account, you will be prompted to do so before you can enter the code.
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- Enter the code displayed on the left side of your TV screen.
- Click Submit.
If the linking is successful, the message will change on your Roku to let you know that you can press the OK button to start viewing films. Once this is complete, you will be able to start viewing films on your Roku. If you need to generate a new code, click the back arrow button on the Roku remote and select the film again.
What Roku devices can I use to access Kanopy?
Kanopy will appear and play on any Roku device that is currently supported by Roku and receiving software updates. If you are unsure if your device is receiving updates, you can check on your Roku by going to Settings -> System -> About. If the Software version listed on this screen is 7.7.0 or higher, Kanopy will play on your device.
Where do I enter the linking code?
To enter your linking code, go to www.kanopy.com/link, or select “Link Your Device” from the Kanopy iOS or Android app. If you are not signed into your account, you will be prompted to log in before you will be able to enter the code. In addition, your account will need to be linked to a subscribing library in order for you to successfully link your device.
Where can I find the Dashboard/channel settings?
While on the Kanopy Roku channel home screen, press the left arrow button to access the side menu. Navigate down to Settings at the bottom of the list.
How can I access my other membership(s)?
Go to the channel settings and press the * button on your remote to display a list of your memberships. Select a membership (denoted by the green light) from the list to switch to access that membership's content on your Roku. Open the Settings menu and click Home to reload your screen.
Can I add multiple Kanopy accounts at a time to my Roku?
Only 1 Kanopy account can be linked to your Roku at a time. If you would like to access another account on your Roku, follow the instructions to log out of your account.
Can I link my account to multiple Roku devices?
Yes! You can link your account to as many Roku devices as you’d like.
How do I log out of my account?
Go to the channel settings and select the tab labelled “Log out”. Select “Yes, log me out” and press OK to confirm. If you would like to relink your account, or a different account, select “Link Device” and follow the onscreen instructions. Please note that if you are relinking a different account, you will need to be signed into that account on the device you are using to link to your Roku.
How do I know if a film is closed captioned?
Select a film to display its details. The CC icon will be displayed beneath the title if the title is closed captioned.
How do I access closed captions/subtitles?
Press the * button on your Roku remote while the film is playing. A screen will appear with "Captions mode" highlighted. While this is highlighted, press the OK button on the remote until "On always" appears. Click down and select "Close" to save and exit the caption options.
If you are having trouble viewing closed captions when viewing from your Roku, please ensure that you have the latest software version installed.
How do I add films to my Watchlist?
Select a film to open up the its details. Press the down arrow so that “+ Add to Watchlist” is selected then press OK to add the film to your Watchlist. Press OK again if you would like to remove the film.
Where do I access my Watchlist?
Click the left arrow button on your remote to open the side menu and select "My Lists". Your Watchlist will be displayed here.
How do I know how many play credits I have remaining?
The number of play credits you have remaining for the month will appear at the top right of your TV screen. To learn more about how these play credits work, go here.
How do I find films I’ve already viewed?
Click the left arrow button on your remote to open the side menu and select "My Lists". Select "Continue Watching" to find films that you have viewed previously but have not completed here.
The screen is being cut off and I cannot see the sidebar. How do I fix this?
Go to your TV settings and adjust the aspect ratio/picture size. Some TVs will display an option to fit to screen - select this option if it is displayed. Otherwise, you can select the listed aspect ratio of your TV.
Can I access Kanopy on Roku if I do not belong to a subscribing library?
In order to access the films on Kanopy, you will need a Kanopy account that has been linked to a subscribing library. To find out if your library participates, check here.