Downers Grove Public Library Announces Teen Film Screening at Tivoli Theatre

Submitted by the Downers Grove Public Library.

After an eight-week curriculum on documentary-creation, the Downers Grove Public Library is hosting its first annual teen film screening event. Eleven high school teens were selected to participate in a pilot documentary-creation program, with help from a Best Buy Foundation Community Grant.

During the course, they learned how to use the library’s camera equipment (including microphones and tripods), lighting techniques, interview skills, and advanced video editing software. Classes were led by Chicago-based independent film producer Laura Zinger of 20KFilms (www.20kfilms.com) Teens divided into groups and began the writing, filming, and editing process on various topics (gaming industry, art, stress levels of students, and music).

This project was also the debut for the library’s new Digital Media Lab - two rooms built specifically for (and stocked with) sound recording equipment, musical instruments, and sound-proof walls. The library’s Information Technology Manager Dale Galiniak says “After months of hard work, it’s been exciting to finally open it for public use. I’ve particularly enjoyed watching our teen participants create sophisticated films using this space.”

Now, after several weeks of editing time, it’s time to see their final projects. All documentaries will be shown at the Tivoli Theatre (5021 Highland Ave.) with a question and answer session to follow. Join us on Saturday, February 7, from 10:30 - 11:30 a.m. The screening is free and open to all, and the concessions will be open!