The Librarians in Cologne: Film and discussion about censorship and free information
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The Librarians: Film, censorship and the freedom of access to knowledge
On October 15, 2026, the Cologne City Library invites you to a screening of The Librarians at the interim location of the Central Library, followed by a discussion with Prof. Dr. Claudia Frick. The documentary film by Kim A. Snyder combines cinematic observation with a highly relevant societal question: How can the free access to books, information, and diverse perspectives be defended?
A documentary about books, power, and democratic public life
The Librarians was produced in the USA and sheds light on increasing attempts at censorship and organized campaigns aimed at removing books from school and public libraries. The focus is on library staff, parents, and engaged citizens who resist disinformation, intimidation, personal attacks, and looming prosecution.
Works that address sexual education, sexual orientation and identity, African American history, racism, diversity, and equality are particularly affected. The film screening thus provides a compelling insight into libraries as places of cultural education, democratic participation, and intellectual freedom.
Work analysis in the context of Banned Books Week
Following Banned Books Week, the discussion will delve deeper into the questions raised in the film. Prof. Dr. Claudia Frick from the Institute for Information Science at TH Köln will speak alongside employees of the City Library about historical developments and events surrounding censorship and the free access to information in Germany.
The event connects aesthetic experience and political education: The concentrated exhibition atmosphere of the library space meets the cinematic language of the documentary film, while the subsequent discussion creates space for contextualization, personal experiences, and professional exchange.
Film screening in the original English version
The screening will occur in the original English with German subtitles. This retains the linguistic and emotional closeness of the film while the subtitles allow for concentrated reception. The subsequent discussion is aimed at interested citizens as well as employees of all Cologne specialized and public libraries.
Discussion, cultural education, and open dialogue
The format leads from individual work reflection to collective reflection. Questions regarding freedom of expression, institutional responsibility, memory culture, and the protection of diverse voices gain a scientifically grounded perspective in the discussion with Prof. Dr. Claudia Frick. The open exchange invites participants to share their own experiences and engage with fellow professionals.
The artistic experience of this event lies not in a classical exhibition but in the connection of documentary film, information science, and public debate. The Librarians makes visible how closely libraries, literature, and democratic society are intertwined.
Conclusion: An evening for the freedom to read
Visitors can expect a moving documentary film, an expert discussion, and a stimulating engagement with censorship, libraries, and the right to information. Those wishing to connect cultural education, societal debates, and an intense aesthetic experience will have an important evening at the interim of the Central Library about the significance of free books and open knowledge spaces.
Official channels of the Cologne City Library:
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- Website: City of Cologne – The Librarians
