There’s no fee for either of two Saturday matinee showings of ‘The Public; at Miami Memorial Library on Nov. 2, but viewers are asked to donate new socks, or underwear to be distributed to homeless men and women of the Globe-Miami area; blankets, sleeping bags, backpacks, small tents; can openers - or a tarp or ground-cloth homeless can use to keep their sleeping bags dry. This creative event brings a singular film to our area – while collecting items that will be distributed during the coming cold months by volunteers with the Homeless Coalition of Cobre Valley. The movie will be shown twice, at 1:30 p.m. and again at 4 p.m.

Emilio Estevez wrote, directed and stars in the film. The story unfolds at a public library in Cincinnati as the city braces for a cold snap. Estevez plays Stuart Goodson, a librarian who encounters homeless every day. During the potentially fatal winter weather, one of them informs Stuart that the city’s shelters are full - he and a large group of other men simply won’t leave. A film both uplifting and inspiring, the drama takes a compassionate look at homelessness – while also celebrating public libraries’ essential role in America.

Parents should be aware this film does have mature content including occasional profanity and brief nudity, as well as some violent dialogue. Even if you don’t plan to see the film, please bring donations of items listed above to Miami Memorial Library prior to this special Saturday matinee; or call Library Manager Sue Pontel at 928-473-2621.

To volunteer with the Homeless Coalition of Cobre Valley, or donate items, call Barbara Kannegard at 928-701-1339.