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‘Free for All’ documentary tells story of public libraries’ critical roles throughout history and today

Current · Grace Hagerman · last updated

Widespread screening events are expanding the audience for “Free for All: The Public Library,” an Independent Lens documentary that explores the crucial role of American libraries throughout history and the crises threatening the institutions today.

The Independent Television Service, which presents Independent Lens, has arranged about 380 screening events through June in 47 states and expects that number to increase. It’s presenting the events through its Indie Lens Pop-Up program, which gathers communities for screenings and conversations about newsworthy topics and social issues.

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