Reading scripts at the WGA library
I’ve been going through the past Q&As, and another place to read scripts for free is is the library at the Writers Guild, on Fairfax and 3rd in Los Angeles. While you do have to read the scripts there, it’s a pleasant environment, and the staff is very helpful.
–Blake
Hollywood, CA
I didn’t even know this library existed, so thanks for writing in. Another great resource is the Margaret Herrick Library on La Cienega, which is run by the Academy. In addition to screenplays, it has clipping files on many topics, and would be the ideal first stop for any research into Hollywood history.
Articles
June 22nd, 2004 at 6:12 am
Yes, but folks just loitering take up chairs needed by those of us who do research for a living. I once saw Gavin Lambert have to wait for a file so young ignoramus could paw through some stills. Most of you can get by with books at the local library.
June 22nd, 2004 at 8:37 pm
Good job, way to diss on the future talent of Hollywood. The great thing about this town, as many will say, is that you can go from a nobody to a somebody literally overnight. It’s elitist b.s. like that that not only keeps good people down, but stifles creativity throughout. That young ignoramus might be the next producer turning down your crappy pap. So why don’t you spend less time dictating who you think is a “true professional,” and more time either celebrating cinema for being an art form that brings all walks of life together, or re-evaluating what the hell YOU’RE doing in the library of the Guild, besides trying to belittle someone who not only has a better appreciation of cinema than yourself, but probably quite a bit more talent as well. Good luck with being bitter.
June 23rd, 2004 at 3:42 am
They is always the internet. But yes, a libary like that, would he a place to learn or to research a particular scene. Not to see if writers use words like ‘nipple’ in a screenplay.
‘Nipple’ would be found at a directors libary.
January 20th, 2005 at 10:46 pm
I’m shocked that anyone viewing this site would have a world outlook like that of Rachel. I have visited both Libraries many times and have never observed anyone loitering. Every one there is professional in focus and studious in nature. As to the ignoramus siting, I’m going to go out on a limb and say that the adage of “it takes one to know one” applies here. Some tips for these wonderful resources of film history. Bring a long list of specific items you wish to view or study. WGA is closed for one a one half hour for lunch. (park under in garage. It’s free.) Herrick is closed on Wed. Bring your I.D.. Bring coin change for the locker you’ll have to rent for all your outlawed stuff @ Herrick. Be courteous. And remember, that uptight ignoramus spotter standing ahead of you in line, could be Rachel.
Thanks,
Vic
January 21st, 2005 at 11:37 pm
The WGA library is EXCELLENT. I read a whacking huge mass of West Wings there when I was speccing one. It is a truly terrific resource.
Ach, I was trying to think of a reason why I missed LA after 14 years there, and now I finally have one.
Alex Epstein (who is now creating shows in Montreal, thank goodness)
January 31st, 2005 at 8:29 am
Oh, and — check out Drew’s Script-O-Rama on the net. Too many transcripts, but they’re tagged as such, and quite a few legitimate shooting drafts.
February 2nd, 2005 at 9:23 am
I’m looking for a good place in New York to read final shooting scripts for free. I’ve heard the New York Public Library of the Perfoming Arts in Lincoln Square is good. Does anyone have any tips for New York-based writers?
Best,
Zachary