Nonfiction filmmaking legend Frederick Wiseman goes behind the scenes of one of the greatest knowledge-institutions in the world and reveals it as a place of welcome, cultural exchange and learning. One of the most democratic institutions in the country, the library is committed to being a resource for all the city’s inhabitants. Wiseman’s epic observational portrait eschews narration and onscreen identification, even when the speakers are Elvis Costello and Patti Smith, and it constantly reminds us that libraries serve as neighborhood hubs where citizens learn from each other. Calling it a masterpiece, critic Manohla Dargis of The New York Times wrote: “Democracy is alive and in the hands of a forceful advocate and brilliant filmmaker.” Camera: John Davey. Sound/Editor/Producer/Director: Frederick Wiseman. (US 2017) 197 min.