Syracuse Public Library Hosts Sneak Peek Screening Of ‘Free For All’

SYRACUSE – Independent Lens announced the launch of the new season of Indie Lens Pop-Up, the long-running screening series that brings people together for community-driven conversations around its documentaries.
The event series will feature both in-person and virtual screenings in more than 100 cities across the U.S., according to a news release from the Syracuse Public Library.
SPL will host a free screening of “Free for All: The Public Library” from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Wednesday in its downstairs meeting room. In the documentary “Free for All: The Public Library,” filmmakers Dawn Logsdon and Lucie Faulknor turn the cameras on America’s beloved public institution — the library — and the dramatic human stories unfolding within it.
After the screening, a question-and-answer session with Syracuse Public Library Executive Director Kim Blaha and Assistant Director Megan Daumen will occur. Blaha will also share updates on the library’s building project.
Public libraries are more important than ever, according to the news release provided. They have evolved with time, but their mission remains the same: to provide communities with materials and services for all residents and visitors, enhancing lives and providing a safe and neutral space for education, entertainment and belonging.
Blaha stated, “We are pleased to be able to show the film ‘Free for All: The Public Library,’ which tells the story of the origins of the public library and the people who have made public libraries possible, from the pioneering women behind the ‘Free Library Movement,’ to the challenges faced by librarians today. This documentary is graciously provided by Independent Lens, an award-winning series that provides open and safe forums to discuss important issues affecting our communities. In showing this film, we hope to inspire conversation about the role libraries play throughout history and their positive impact on communities across the country.”
During the screening, Brew City Roasting Company will provide lemonade and pastries for attendees to enjoy.
Indie Lens Pop-Up events provide a space to watch and discuss timely issues explored in its award-winning documentaries. Hundreds of these screenings are hosted in-person and virtually by partners across the nation. Since its inception in 2005, more than 7,200 Indie Lens Pop-Up events have brought an estimated 430,000 participants together to discuss issues that impact local communities, the release states.