If you are looking for inspiration for your next film programming event, check out these recent events held at libraries across the country. These programs connect libraries to communities by promoting holidays or exhibitions, incorporating mixed media, and promoting lively discussion. This list includes four events, with ideas for both virtual and in-person programming. We will also include resources and answers to some questions about showing films at the library you may have.
How can I legally show movies at the library?
Public performance rights are the most important thing to consider to make sure your film screening is within legal limits. A public performance license grants you the ability to show movies to an audience that is not included in standard copyright. Oftentimes, you can attain a public performance license directly through the film's distributor. Check our distributor database for an expansive list of film distributors.
How much does it cost to show a film in public?
Although film programming events can be organized cheaply, it is important to budget for any technical equipment needed, as well as smaller items like popcorn and admission tickets. Cost will be based on your library and needs, but the average cost is typically between 100 and 300 dollars.
Can I show a Netflix movie in public?
Some documentaries in Netflix's expansive catalogue are available for one-time educational screenings. Check out our article exploring these Netflix titles to learn more.
Promote a Holiday
The Aurora Public Library hosted a film screening of One (Nine) and a panel discussion for International Women’s Day. One (Nine) is an anthology film, created by nine women filmmakers despite isolating in different parts of the world. Participants registered to receive a link to the film, which was available to watch all day. The panel discussion was conducted via Zoom later that evening, including Neila Pacheco, the chair of the Aurora Film Circuit and One (Nine) director, Ingrid Veninger. Neila Pacheco stated that this film was a great opportunity to showcase the different roles women take on in film, saying, “We wanted to have a balance, recognizing Ingrid’s work and getting One (Nine) put together, and also the opportunity for women and film, their different focuses, and how they bring it to fruition.”
Host a Meta Discussion
The Hopewell Public Library hosted a discussion about film programming. Staff librarian and host, Jamie Anderson, asked participants about their favorite films and tv shows, and the film programming events that have made them think. This gives library customers a platform to discuss what they are passionate about and librarians a chance to hear what kind of programming is most interesting to their audience These discussions are held in person at the library, but participants are encouraged to register online beforehand. The Hopewell Public Library will host a similar event to discuss Marvel movie programming next month.
Tie Into an Exhibition or Event
The Marshalltown Public Library (MPL) coordinated several programming events in preparation to host the “Americans and the Holocaust” exhibit from March 26 – May 6 2022. The library screened the film, Big Sonia, a documentary about a Holocaust survivor as she struggles to keep her tailor shop open. MPL director, Sarah Rosenblum, explained that she selected the film because of its strong message of survival, also seeing a connection between the tailor shop’s location at a dying mall and the struggling mall in Marshalltown. In addition to the in-person film screening, the library also hosted a book discussion of Survivors Club: The True Story of a Very Young Prisoner of Auschwitz in preparation for the exhibition.
Read our interview with Big Sonia filmmaker, Leah Warshawski
Mixed Media Series
The Summit County Library’s “Book to Film Club” demonstrates a creative way to incorporate literature into film screenings. The monthly series screens a film based on a novel or highlights a memoir or nonfiction book that is relevant to the film. The Summit County Library began the Book to Film Club in 2014, and it is a popular attraction for many library customers. The most recent screening presented The Swimmer, based on the short story by John Cheever. The library includes resources on where to read the short story online, and where it can be found at the library to be checked out. The film screening is followed by an optional group discussion. The event is held in person with room for social distancing and masks encouraged. Upcoming summer titles for the Book to Film Club include Words on Bathroom Walls and Stardust.
Which of these events inspired you the most? Do you have any ideas for film programming this summer at the library?