Join PBS Books for an enlightening conversation exploring the transformative power of public libraries in America. This special event, created to support the upcoming Independent Lens film Free for All: The Public Library, features an in-depth discussion with filmmakers Dawn Logsdon and Lucie Faulknor, as well as a thought-provoking conversation with Cindy Hohl, President of the American Library Association.
Filmmakers Logsdon and Faulknor offer a behind-the-scenes look at their documentary, which traces the evolution of public libraries from their revolutionary beginnings to their role today as essential pillars of democracy, education, and community support. Inspired by the heroic efforts of librarians during Hurricane Katrina, the film examines the historic and ongoing challenges facing libraries, from budget cuts to book bans, while celebrating their resilience and continued relevance.
Additionally, Cindy Hohl provides expert insight into the current state of America’s libraries, the fight for the Freedom to Read, and the critical role libraries play in fostering inclusion, knowledge, and civic engagement.
Hosted by Heather-Marie Montilla, this PBS Books event will also feature the official film trailer for Free for All: The Public Library, offering viewers an exclusive preview of this inspiring documentary.
Where to Watch: Tune in live on Facebook, YouTube, and the PBS app
Don’t miss this engaging conversation about the past, present, and future of America’s public libraries.
About the Host
Heather-Marie Montilla
Heather-Marie Montilla, a dynamic integrative leader, is an educator and nonprofit manager. She has worked in the nonprofit sector and libraries for over two decades, making a positive impact in arts, cultural, educational, and community-building arenas.
Having joined the PBS Books team as their Library Bureau Chief in Fall 2018, Montilla is now the National Director of PBS Books and has interviewed more than 150 writers. In addition, she is a faculty member at Michigan State University and Eastern Michigan University for their Arts and Cultural/Entertainment Management Programs. Having been an Executive Director for 8 years, Heather has a wide range of experience in management, finance, strategic planning, marketing, and fundraising. Heather holds a MPA From Columbia University, a MLIS from Wayne State University, and a bachelor’s from Duke University. She lives in Chicagoland, and is married with four children, a dog, and a bird.
About the Guests
Lucie Faulkor
Lucie Faulknor is an arts management and documentary film professional. Founder at Serendipity Films, LLC, she produced the award-winning documentary Faubourg Tremé: The Untold Story of Black New Orleans. Lucie has worked with SFJAZZ, City Arts & Lectures, Dublin Fringe Festival, and more. She holds a Master of Nonprofit Administration.
Dawn Logsdon
Dawn Logsdon produced, directed, and edited Faubourg Tremé: The Untold Story of Black New Orleans, and co-directed Big Joy: The Adventures of James Broughton. Her editing credits include Jacques Pepin: The Art of Craft, The Weather Underground, Paragraph 175, The Castro, The Vanishing Line, and Have You Heard From Johannesburg among others.
Cindy Hohl
President, American Library Association
Cindy Hohl, director of policy analysis and operational support at Kansas City (Mo.) Public Library is the 2024-2025 president of the American Library Association (ALA).
Hohl is past president of the American Indian Library Association and is an active member of other ALA affiliates, including the Asian/Pacific American Librarians Association, Black Caucus of ALA, Chinese American Librarians Association, and REFORMA: The National Association to Promote Library and Information Services to Latinos and the Spanish-Speaking. Hohl is also a member of several round tables: Intellectual Freedom Round Table, Library Research Round Table, and Social Responsibilities Round Table.
Hohl holds a Bachelor of Science in Organization Management and Leadership from Friends University, a Master of Library and Information Science from Wayne State University, and a Master of Business Administration from Baker University.
