November 2022 Update: There is a newer, updated list of sound libraries here: Free Sound Libraries for School Technology Projects
As a sound library resource for students, I posted a blog a while ago with a list of free sites. Here’s another one that’s definitely worth a visit! Videvo is a great resource for high quality music, sound effects, video footage, and motion graphics. The site was originally created as a resource for filmmakers to find free video and sound clips, but they aim to be a powerful educational tool too. And best of all, much of the Videvo sound library is free.
Here are six features I liked about Videvo:
- Free!
When browsing through the library or performing a search, you can always select to show only free clips. - Multiple Search Options
To find a sound or video clip, you can search by keywords, type of clip, category, resolution, or license. The site is engaging, simple, and easy to use. Clips are clearly labelled with file information such as duration, file size, resolution, format, and more, as applicable. - School Themed Categories
The categories suit use by students. Themes include animals, food and drink, nature, musical, sport, people, and more. - Easy Preview
Mouse over to preview a sound or watch a motion clip. Note: when previewing sounds before downloading, there is a Videvo voice over, but it’s not part of the sound after saving. - Free Account
You can register for a free account, but it’s not necessary. A free account allows you to see your download history, create a profile, and upload your own video content to the site. - License Information
Downloading and using online materials is a practical way of teaching students about copyright. Students should be made aware that copyright belongs to the author of each clip even if they are royalty free. For free clips, you are asked to share your Videvo experience via social media, but this is not required.
There are 4 different types of licensed clips on Videvo:- Royalty Free – can be used for any use, just not be made available to any other site for download
- Videvo Attribution License –the author must be credited when using a clip
- Creative Commons 3.0 – free to share and adapt; you can remix, transform, and add to a clip
- NASA Guidelines – free to use but should acknowledge NASA as the source