In his 42nd film, the prolific documentarian Frederick Wiseman (Jackson Heights, Titicut Follies) continues his work highlighting the inner workings of large-scale institutions—this time setting his sights on the New York Public Library. The magnificent Stephen A. Schwarzman Building (and 5th Avenue at 42nd Street) is the spine of the film, but equally vital is the role of branch libraries that act as community centers for civic life. Staff meetings, back office phone calls, speaking engagements, tutoring sessions, nothing escapes Wiseman’s gaze and the final product reveals a venerable place of welcome, cultural exchange, and intellectual creativity.