6. ASK US FOR A RECOMMENDATION
As script librarians, we keep analytics. We know the hot scripts that everybody’s requesting. We know the classic scripts everybody should read as well as the well-regarded scripts in most genres. We’ve also collectively watched a lot of TV and movies and read lots of scripts and books on writing. This means we can often give you a helpful recommendation if you’re not sure what to read. Talk to us.
Javier likes to talk about feature screenplays. Hilary is the go-to person for old TV, and guild and Hollywood history. Lauren’s all about character development. While we’re not here to read your material or give you feedback or daily affirmations, we do love to talk story.
Keep in mind: if you’re talking to us for excessive periods of time, you’re not being productive. While we’re serving you in the library, we are also doing other work. We’re reaching out to writers to acquire more scripts. We’re cataloging new scripts and processing archival collections and tons of other things. We love to be interrupted, but please respect our time.
7. THE LIBRARY IS BEST FOR QUIET, SOLITARY WRITING OR STUDY
The library is a quiet, focused space—and that’s why people usually find it extremely productive when they visit. We don’t have private conference rooms you can rent to work with your writing partners. This means we’re not a great place if you need to chat with your writing partner or rehearse that scene you’ve been assigned for acting class. If you can’t work quietly, this is probably not the place for you.
8. WE’RE ALSO AN ARCHIVE
Did you know the WGF also hosts an archive? This means we keep materials relating to guild history as well as the papers of prominent members and writers. It also means we have unique materials in our collection such as show bibles, pitch decks, note cards, outlines, correspondence, and handwritten drafts from some popular films and TV shows.
If you want to gain insight into the writing or development process or prepare for your own pitches and meetings, studying these materials can be an invaluable experience. You can see what archival collections we have by searching the catalog or visiting the OAC search platform. Most pitches and show bibles exist on our iPads and can be accessed upon request on any given library visit.