The San Francisco Cinematheque, founded in 1961, is like a library, museum, lab, and screening room all rolled into one—in short, a cinema fan’s paradise. The Cinematheque shows experimental films, digital media, and performative cinema, and it works to further the public’s appreciation of these through showcases, publications, exhibitions, and other activities.

Numerous programs offered throughout the year often include in-person presentations from distinguished scholars and film practitioners, historical works from American and international cinema, experiments in film, and the development of video and film presentations for showcases in America and abroad. Students and scholars of film will find a treasure trove of information on the art available at the San Francisco Cinemateque through its archival services, publications library, lectures, panels, and retrospectives.