The Forest City Film Festival London Public Library partnership marks a decade of creative collaboration. As FCFF celebrates its 10th anniversary, we reflect on ten remarkable years of working hand-in-hand with one of London’s most beloved institutions.
This year marks a major milestone for the Forest City Film Festival. It’s our 10th anniversary! As we celebrate a decade of showcasing the best in film from Southwestern Ontario, we are also proudly celebrating ten incredible years of partnership with London Public Library. Since day one, London Public Library has supported the Festival in making Central Library and its Wolf Performance Hall our home.
More Than a Venue — A True Partnership
From the very first conversation between our Executive Director, Dorothy Downs, and the Library team, it was clear we had found more than a venue; we had found a true partner. When Dorothy approached the Library with the idea of launching a regional film festival, the response was immediate and enthusiastic. The vision was shared. Both organizations believed deeply in building community through arts and culture.
Wolf Performance Hall was, and continues to be, the perfect home for FCFF with its 360+ seats, professional laser projection, full sound system, backstage dressing rooms and green room, and adjacent meeting and reception spaces. Located in the heart of downtown and known to the public as a hub for learning, creativity, and cultural exchange, the Library brings with it a spirit that matches our mission.
Over the years, London Public Library has invested in continuous upgrades to the Wolf, enhancing its screen, sound, and streaming capabilities, all of which have allowed the Festival to grow and evolve. More than just the physical space, it’s the Library’s people who make it extraordinary. From front-line staff to technical support, the expertise, enthusiasm, and hospitality we’ve received from day one have been second to none.
“Nancy, I really want to thank you for all the years you’ve been here for the Forest City Film Festival,” Dorothy shared with Nancy Collister, the Library’s Director of Customer Services and Branch Operations, in a recent conversation reflecting on the decade-long partnership. Nancy, who has been there since the very beginning, echoed the feeling. Nancy reflects that the Festival brought the Library an opportunity to shine and show the community what was possible with Library venues and resources.
A Partnership That Fuels Creativity and Community
This partnership with London Public Library has allowed FCFF to focus our resources where they matter most, on supporting filmmakers, delivering unforgettable programming, and celebrating local talent. The Library’s support has helped us expand and elevate our offerings while keeping our roots firmly planted in Southwestern Ontario.
Nancy also shared a bit of the Wolf’s history: “The Wolf family, whom the Hall is named after, had a vision of creating a space for the community.” She thinks the Festival aligns beautifully with that vision and loves seeing how FCFF activates every inch of the space, bringing a buzz that resonates through the entire Library.
For us, the Festival is about more than just film. It’s about celebrating the incredible creative talent of this region, building pride in our local stories, and creating shared experiences that make London feel like home. And for ten years, we’ve done that hand in hand with London Public Library.
As we gear up to mark our 10th anniversary from October 24 to November 2, 2025, we do so with immense gratitude for the Library, its staff, and the vibrant community that surrounds us. Together, we’ve built something truly special, and we can’t wait to see where the next decade takes us.
Join the Celebration
We look forward to welcoming you to ten days of film, conversation, and connection, right here, in the heart of our city.
Watch the full interview here.
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Learn more about the London Public Library and their cultural initiatives.