University of Louisville and LFPL Partner on Community Film and Discussion Series During Black History Month

Each February, a four-week film and discussion series brings together members of the Louisville community and University of Louisville faculty for conversations grounded in history and film. Presented during Black History Month, the series is free and open to all.

The Film and Discussion Series is offered through a longstanding collaboration between the Louisville Free Public Library (LFPL) and the University of Louisville’s Health Sciences Center Office of Health Equity and Engagement. Established in 2018 by Dr. Karen Krigger, the series features documentary and narrative films that explore historical perspectives on African American life, community health, and social engagement.

From its inception, the series has been designed as a community-accessible program. Core planning elements include a centrally located neighborhood venue, free admission, ADA-accessible facilities, assistive listening devices, free parking, and coordinated public outreach. These features remain foundational and support broad public participation.

Initially centered on historically significant films released between 2017 and 2020, the series has grown to include films focused on literature, history, medicine, and LGBTQ+ topics. The program was developed to address logistical and educational access gaps in Louisville, including limited cinematic infrastructure in some areas, disparities in residential broadband access, and a perceived divide between the university and the public. By offering in-person programming in an accessible setting, the series supports shared learning and public discussion.

Each screening is followed by a moderated discussion led by academic experts and community leaders. Moderators begin each event with introductory remarks that outline the program format and set expectations for respectful discussion, particularly when films address complex or challenging historical topics. The discussion provides historical context, subject-matter analysis, and opportunities for audience questions related to each film. Screenings are supported by related materials available through the Louisville Free Public Library, and attendees may participate in book drawings connected to the film’s subject matter.

A unique aspect of the series is its setting within a public library, which brings university academia into a community space and creates opportunities for dialogue between academic experts and community members through conversations about history as presented in film. Audience engagement is an integral part of the program, and feedback is collected through post-event surveys to assess program quality, knowledge gained, and suggestions for future programming.

Since 2018, the series has welcomed attendees from across Jefferson County, surrounding Kentucky counties, Southern Indiana, and occasionally from outside the region and internationally. The program draws participants representing a wide range of ages and backgrounds. More than 300 faculty panelists from across the University of Louisville’s academic schools have participated over the years, along with guest panelists from other regional and national institutions.

Program Disclosure

This program is offered for educational and informational purposes. Guest speakers and panelists participate in their individual capacities and are not speaking as official representatives of the University of Louisville. The views, statements, and opinions expressed by speakers or audience members during the program do not necessarily reflect the official policies or positions of the University of Louisville or the Louisville Free Public Library. The University of Louisville and LFPL do not endorse specific viewpoints expressed during the program.

2026 Film and Discussion Series Schedule [Register here to attend]

The 2026 Film and Discussion Series will be held at the newly renovated Parkland Free Public Library, located at 2743 Virginia Avenue, Louisville, KY 40211. Because the library is closed on Sundays, all screenings will take place on Saturdays in February 2026 at 1:00 p.m.

Literature

February 7, 2026 | 1:00 p.m.
 Zora Neale Hurston: Claiming a Space
 (American Experience, Season 35, Episode 2)

This documentary explores the writings and anthropological work of Zora Neale Hurston. Panelists will be from the University of Louisville School of Arts and Sciences.
Runtime: 1 hour, 52 minutes

History

February 14, 2026 | 1:00 p.m.
 The Woman King

Inspired by historical events in the Kingdom of Dahomey during the 1800s, this feature film examines leadership and warfare. Panelists will be from the University of Louisville School of Arts and Sciences.
Runtime: 2 hours, 15 minutes
Rating: PG-13

Medicine

February 21, 2026 | 1:00 p.m.
Critical Condition: Health in Black America
(NOVA, Season 52, Episode 9)

Produced in 2025, this documentary examines health outcomes and contributing factors affecting African American populations in the United States. Panelists will be from the University of Louisville Health Sciences Center.
Runtime: 1 hour, 36 minutes
Rating: PG-13

LGBTQ+

February 28, 2026 | 1:00 p.m.
Little Richard: I Am Everything

This documentary chronicles the life and cultural impact of Richard Wayne Penniman, known as Little Richard. Panelists will be from the University of Louisville School of Music.
Runtime: 1 hour, 38 minutes
Rating: Not Rated (NR)

Participation in the Film and Discussion Series is entirely optional and is open to the public without regard to race, religion, sex, color, national origin, or any other protected characteristics.