Called “Gala Event on the Red Carpet,” the event takes place Saturday, Feb. 13 from 6 to 9 p.m. and benefits the library’s capital campaign.
The event comes just two weeks before the Oscars, also in February, and will give guests a glimpse behind the scenes of the motion picture industry.
Niklewicz will discuss Motion Pictures, including the history, making, viewing and the celebrating of this popular and important art-form covering historical developments from 1889 through 2015, as well as the steps involved in making a movie and recognizing award winners.
“We are excited to host a presentation of this caliber here at the library,” said Julie Mulcahy, head librarian. “David’s story will help to illuminate the behind-the-scenes expertise that makes what we see on the screen more enjoyable and real.”
“We expect a packed house and are happy throw out the red carpet for all of our attendees. This will be a fun night that will at the same time help raise money for our capital expenses.”
One interesting local fact that ties into the big screen is Alexander Laughlin, Jr., library namesake, who passed away at a young age and left behind a widow, Margaret Mellon Laughlin. She remarried Thomas Hitchcock, Jr., famous polo player from New York, and also the man whom F. Scott Fitzgerald modeled two characters upon—Tom Buchanan in The Great Gatsby and Tommy Barban, in Tender Is The Night. Both movies have Academy Award nominations in various capacities.
Library board member Bob Niklewicz said for more than 85 years, the Laughlin Memorial Library has served the surrounding communities as a beautiful facility and an excellent resource of information, knowledge and meeting space.
“We are pleased to provide events like these to help sustain and support the library's infrastructure and programs. The library has been a resource to hundreds of thousands of people, many of whom have gone on to significant achievements and contributions throughout the world. Our guest speaker is one example. Dave is honored and delighted to return to his hometown, share his experience, and help support the library's mission. This will be an enjoyable evening for all in attendance and most importantly it will help polish our community's gem, the Laughlin Memorial Library."
Tickets are $25 per person and include food. Formal attire is optional and guests are welcome to BYOB.