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EX LIBRIS: The New York Public Library 2017

This documentary offers a unique look inside The New York Public Library, a vital center for knowledge and community. Through intimate observation, Frederick Wiseman reveals the library’s daily operations, showcasing the countless interactions between staff and patrons. From research and reading rooms to exhibitions and public events, the film captures the breadth of services offered to the 18 million visitors and 32 million online users who rely on this iconic institution for discovery and lifelong learning.

This documentary offers a unique look inside The New York Public Library, a vital center for knowledge and community. Through intimate observation, Frederick Wiseman reveals the library’s daily operations, showcasing the countless interactions between staff and patrons. From research and reading rooms to exhibitions and public events, the film captures the breadth of services offered to the 18 million visitors and 32 million online users who rely on this iconic institution for discovery and lifelong learning.

Does EX LIBRIS: The New York Public Library have end credit scenes?

No!

EX LIBRIS: The New York Public Library does not have end credit scenes. You can leave when the credits roll.

Ratings and Reviews for EX LIBRIS: The New York Public Library

See how EX LIBRIS: The New York Public Library is rated across major platforms like IMDb, Metacritic, and TMDb. Compare audience scores and critic reviews to understand where EX LIBRIS: The New York Public Library stands among top-rated movies in its genre.


Echo Score

The Movie Echo Score

85

While Ex Libris offers an engrossing portrait of a storied institution, its extended three-hour runtime results in varying levels of engagement across viewers. Critics praise the film’s immersive examination of the library’s community and its brisk editing that often belies the length. Detractors point to moments of slow pacing that challenge sustained interest. Overall, the documentary leaves a positive impression through its thoughtful exploration of public spaces despite occasional stretches of languid storytelling.

The Movie Echo Score Breakdown for EX LIBRIS: The New York Public Library

88
Echo Score

Art & Craft

In terms of art and craft, Ex Libris demonstrates disciplined direction and polished editing that sustain momentum across extensive footage. Cinematography captures both grand architectural spaces and intimate human interactions with consistent visual clarity. Production design is unobtrusive yet detailed, reflecting the library’s aesthetic with restraint. These elements combine to deliver a refined visual presentation.

93
Echo Score

Character & Emotion

Regarding character and emotion, the documentary reveals a tapestry of personal stories that underscore the library’s communal spirit. Interviews highlight staff members’ passions and patrons’ curiosity, offering nuanced portrayals of human complexity. Emotional resonance emerges from candid exchanges rather than overt narration. These depictions foster a genuine connection to the individuals who bring the institution to life.

78
Echo Score

Story & Flow

In terms of story and flow, the film balances a comprehensive institutional overview with measured pacing that sometimes feels protracted. The sequence of scenes coalesces into a coherent narrative about civic engagement, though extended durations on certain operations may test viewer attention. Despite occasional pacing lapses, the documentary maintains thematic consistency through structured sequencing.

85
Echo Score

Sensory Experience

When it comes to sensory experience, Ex Libris offers a subtle yet cohesive audiovisual palette that prioritizes ambient atmospherics over dramatic flourishes. The absence of narration allows environmental sounds—from rustling pages to distant footsteps—to foreground the library’s soundscape. Visual style remains understated, with a restrained color palette that enhances spatial coherence. The overall sensory approach is quietly immersive.

72
Echo Score

Rewatch Factor

As for rewatch factor, the film’s detailed examination rewards repeated viewings for those interested in institutional process, though its length may discourage casual reengagement. The meticulous coverage of archival and daily operations offers fresh insights on subsequent viewings. Overall, the documentary holds targeted appeal but may not invite broad replay.

Metacritic

91

Metascore

7.7

User Score

Rotten Tomatoes
review

97%

TOMATOMETER

review

59%

User Score

IMDb

7.4 /10

IMDb Rating

TMDB

64

%

User Score

Letterboxd

3.9

From 31 fan ratings

Watch Trailers, Clips & Behind-the-Scenes for EX LIBRIS: The New York Public Library

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Watch official trailers, exclusive clips, cast interviews, and behind-the-scenes footage from EX LIBRIS: The New York Public Library. Dive deeper into the making of the film, its standout moments, and key production insights.


EX LIBRIS - The New York Public Library

Movie Themes and Keywords

Discover the central themes, ideas, and keywords that define the movie’s story, tone, and message. Analyze the film’s deeper meanings, genre influences, and recurring concepts.


new york public librarylibrarydigitizationbooknew york cityinternetlaptop computerconferenceconcertpianofiremanknowledgeblindnesssign languagephotographdancingrobote bookreference to phillis wheatleypaintingafrican americanslaverytextbooktruthphotographyreference to richard dawkinsarchivedigital dividephilanthropyaccess to informationpublic libraryreference to carl saganreference to charles darwinreaderdigital preservationknowledge preservationaccess to knowledgemagazinephotograph collectionmicrofilmmeetingprivate fundingculture fundinggovernment fundingpublic fundingnew york timesbook collection

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