filmfriend

filmfriend is a video streaming platform operated by filmwerte GmbH in Potsdam, Germany. It gives members of participating public and university libraries access to films and series through an existing library card or university account. The service launched in Berlin in 2017 and has since expanded to libraries in several European countries. Its model connects a familiar public institution with a digital film catalogue.

Streaming through libraries

To use filmfriend, viewers select a participating library and sign in with their library credentials. Eligible members can then watch the catalogue without paying an additional viewing fee. The platform lists partner libraries in Germany, Austria, Switzerland, Luxembourg, Belgium, France and Liechtenstein. Access to an individual film can still depend on licensing and the viewer's location, so availability is not identical everywhere.

Films selected for discovery

The catalogue includes feature films, documentaries, children's films and series, with a particular emphasis on curated collections. filmfriend says its offer includes more than 3,400 films and 220 series and adds roughly 300 titles each year. Editorial pages provide background on filmmakers and themes, while search and filters help viewers find a title. A dedicated children's area organizes films by age and includes educational age recommendations alongside official ratings.

Ways to watch

Members can watch in a web browser, on mobile devices and through supported television apps. The service also describes offline viewing in its mobile apps, subject to its usage terms. Subtitles and audio descriptions are offered where a title supports them. This makes filmfriend useful for people who want a library based alternative to a conventional entertainment subscription.

Company in Potsdam

The platform is provided by filmwerte GmbH, whose legal notice lists Potsdam as its registered address. filmwerte is part of Via Unita Software GmbH. The operator handles the technical platform, editorial presentation and licensing contact for the library streaming service.