Mark: A Call to Action, a compelling documentary chronicling the life and advocacy of Mark Bookman, Ph.D. will be screened on Sunday, July 26 at 2:30 p.m. in the auditorium of Richland Library Main, located at 1431 Assembly Street, Columbia, S.C. 29201. Admission is free and open to the public.

The screening coincides with the 35th anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act, landmark legislation signed into law on July 26, 1990, by President George H. W. Bush. Collaborators for the screening include the USC School of Information Science Accessibility Leadership Lab and Richland Library.

The documentary follows Bookman’s extraordinary journey from living with a disability to becoming an internationally recognized accessibility advocate. Through personal storytelling and powerful insight, the documentary highlights the ongoing importance of disability rights, inclusion and equitable access.

Bookman became one of Japan's leading experts on accessibility and a policy consultant to governments and major corporations around the world.

“This is a must-see documentary on a most important topic,” wrote Matt Davison of The Sound View.

The film first premiered in Tokyo in February 2024 followed by its U.S. premier in June 2024 to sold out audiences at The Bryn Mawr Film Institute. 

The 90-minute documentary was produced and directed by Charleston-based filmmaker Ron Small, with Billy Keyserling, former mayor of Beaufort, serving as executive producer.

“I believe everyone involved in disability access and education in South Carolina will benefit from seeing and hearing Mark’s story," Small says. "Making this film was a labor of love and I am looking forward to sharing it this summer.”

Following the screening, members of the disability community and invited guests will participate in a community conversation about accessibility, advocacy and the future of disability rights.

For additional information, contact Frank Baker, fbaker1346@gmail.com or 803-582-8802.