Photograph Zipporah Films – Courtesy
La Biennale di Venezia Cinema
Ex Libris –
The New York Public Library
Frederick Wiseman
Frederick Wiseman’s film, Ex Libris – The New York
Public Library, goes behind the scenes of one of the greatest knowledge
institutions of the world. The film reveals the library as a place of welcome,
cultural exchange and learning to 18 million patrons and 32 million online
visitors annually. There are 92 library branches throughout Manhattan, the Bronx and Staten Island.
The NYPL is committed to being a
resource for all the inhabitants of this multifaceted and cosmopolitan city. It
is accessible, open to everyone and exemplifies the deeply rooted American belief in the individual’s
right to know and be informed. The library is one of the most democratic
institutions in America—all races,
social classes and ethnicities are welcome and are active participants in the
life and work of the library. The library strives to inspire learning, advance
knowledge and strengthens communities.
“Public libraries in America
have changed since I was young. I remember going to the library to get books.
Libraries now offer so much more. During the shooting of the film I was
surprised to discover the vast variety of services, opportunities and
experiences libraries provide to anyone who walks through the door. Libraries
of today have become community centers with after school programs for kids and
adult education courses in languages, citizenship, business and computer
programming. Regardless of the current American political scene, the library
remains an ideal of inclusion, democracy and freedom of expression.”
Frederick Wiseman
Director
Contessanally - this wonderful documentary tells the story of
the iconic institution - 8/10
#Venezia74 - Palazzo del Cinema
standing ovation for director Frederick Wiseman
Paolo Baratta President La Biennale di Venezia