Bringing TV to Life at the Library: An Interview with Rick Pelletier
Public libraries are always finding creative ways to engage their communities, and TV-based programming offers a fun way to bring people together. Rick Pelletier, Assistant Branch Manager at Mount Pleasant Library, a branch of Charleston County Public Library, has great success incorporating TV shows into library events—especially his “Golden Girls” programs. In this interview, he shares his insights on selecting shows, structuring events and creating memorable experiences for patrons.
"The Golden Girls" events have been very popular at your library. What are the key elements that have contributed to making them a success?
“The Golden Girls” has a dedicated fanbase that spans generations. The show’s humor, themes of friendship and timeless charm draw in both longtime fans and newer audiences. I created a visual timeline that offered patrons a clear narrative of the series' evolution, while the archival interview footage provided exclusive behind-the-scenes insights. Including fun facts, trivia and discussions not only deepened their connection with the content but also encouraged interaction among attendees. The themed decorations—and even the cheesecake—added a playful, immersive touch that brought the world of “The Golden Girls” to life. Overall, these elements created a memorable, community-centered experience.
How do you typically structure your TV-based programming to keep attendees engaged?
Since the episodes are generally between 20-25 minutes, I schedule short breaks between them. This helps keep the energy up and gives everyone a chance to reflect and chat about the funniest moments. Picking episodes that are lighthearted and funny keeps the mood fun and engaging. I want this program to be a fun experience.
How do you decide which TV shows to feature in your programming?
In 2023, our Summer Reading Theme was “Reading is Radical.” In June, we celebrated everything ‘80s, and in July, everything ‘90s. I decided to use “The Golden Girls” as a focal point for our Summer Reading theme since it perfectly encapsulated the ‘80s/’90s vibe while offering something a bit different. The show’s premiere in 1985 ties directly into the era, and leveraging nostalgic elements like screening the pilot, showcasing archival interview footage and sharing lesser-known facts added an extra layer of depth to the experience. This approach not only celebrated a beloved piece of television history but also created a multi-sensory event that resonated with patrons who appreciated both the humor and the cultural significance of the series.
What surprises have you encountered when planning TV-based events?
The biggest surprise for me has been the feedback. Patrons really enjoy coming to the library to watch “The Golden Girls.” One patron was having a very difficult week, and a friend encouraged her to attend the event. She was hesitant at first, unsure if watching “The Golden Girls” was something she wanted to do, but her friend insisted. After the event, she came up to me and said, “I want to thank you for doing this program. After the week I’ve been having, this was definitely something I needed, so thank you.” To me, that was what made it a success—the feedback, not the number of people who attended.
What advice would you give to other libraries looking to incorporate TV into their programming?
I would say pick a show you are a fan of, then plan the program. A TV show offers different possibilities based on story arcs and themes since you have a plethora of episodes to choose from, whereas a movie centers around a single storyline. Having themed decorations related to the show adds to the fun of the event.
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