As a movie lover and film studies graduate, I’m always excited to see film programs in libraries, even in smaller ones. And yet, it’s fair to say that film is often not treated as a priority in public library programming. I’d love to see that change because I believe that film screenings have the potential to be a cornerstone of the library experience.

There’s something special about watching a movie at the library. It’s different from the traditional movie theater experience and different from watching at home. Screenings in alternative spaces like libraries feel more intimate and more unexpected. But when you think about it, they make perfect sense. Libraries are community hubs, welcoming, inclusive spaces where people from all backgrounds can gather, learn, and connect.

Film screenings bring that mission to life in a powerful way. They create opportunities not just to watch, but to engage through discussion, shared reflection, and exploration of related resources, including those from the library’s collections. A thoughtfully curated screening can transform a film into a deeper learning experience, harnessing the emotional power of film to spark intellectual curiosity and conversation. It becomes a tool for lifelong learning and community building, advancing the library’s mission.

Here at the L.E. Philips Memorial Public Library, we are fortunate to have a beautiful space for this kind of programming: the Riverview Room on the third floor. It allows us to host free, community-centered and educational events in a welcoming environment. Our film offerings are diverse, ranging from teen movie matinees paired with crafts to interactive children’s screenings. However, we have been working to expand our film programming for adults.

That’s why I’m especially excited to invite you to our upcoming event on April 25, 2026 at 11:15 AM. Whether you are a film enthusiast, a food lover, or simply curious, you should join us for the screening of Marcella, a documentary about renowned Italian cookbook author Marcella Hazan, who helped shape how Americans understand and cook Italian food. To make the experience even more delicious, we’ll be serving Italian appetizers and refreshments, because what better way to explore a film about food than by tasting it? You can even make a morning of it by attending our Pasta Making Class at 10:00 AM before the screening. Italian food is the perfect cuisine to get you excited about the start of farmers market season!

As we continue to grow our film programming for adults, we’d love to hear from you. If you have any suggestions for films (fiction or documentaries) that you would like to see at the Library or topics you are curious to explore through movies and discussions, please share in the comments below or send us an email at librarian@eauclaire.lib.wi.us.

Whether or not you join us on April 25, you can explore these titles that will immerse you in the rich and delicious world of Italian and Italian-American cuisine.

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