STAFF REPORT
Glasgow News 1
Glasgow residents will have a chance to attend a free screening of an independent documentary Thursday evening, as WKU Public Media partners with Mary Wood Weldon Memorial Library to present “The Tallest Dwarf.”
The film, directed by Julie Forrest Wyman, will begin at 6 p.m. on April 2 at the library as part of the Indie Lens Pop-Up series, a collaboration with PBS’ Independent Lens that brings independently produced films to local communities.
The documentary follows Wyman’s personal exploration of dwarfism within her own family, combining questions of identity, medical ethics and belonging.
At its core, the film asks a broader societal question: should individuals be expected to change, or should the structures that limit them be reexamined?
According to WKU Public Media staffer Elizabeth Bates, the screening is part of a larger effort to connect with communities while fostering meaningful dialogue.
“We love getting to interact with our community, and this was a great chance to meet with our Glasgow listeners and community members,” Bates said. “Discussing topics like disabilities helps improve quality of life by lowering stigmas, creating a sense of belonging, and allowing space for tough questions and honest conversations.”
Dwarfism, usually defined as a condition resulting in short stature – typically under 4 feet 10 inches in adulthood – is most commonly caused by a genetic condition such as achondroplasia.
Advocacy organizations like Little People of America have long spoken on the importance of education and visibility in reducing misconceptions and improving accessibility for individuals with dwarfism.
Library Director Amy Tollison said the event aligns with the library’s broader mission.
Tollison noted that “The library strives to be a place of lifelong education and curiosity,” and that “Hosting a film centered on the lived experiences and challenges of people with dwarfism reflects those values.”
The Indie Lens Pop-Up series is designed not only to showcase independent films, but also to spark community-based discussions around complex and often underrepresented topics. “The Tallest Dwarf” embodies that goal by blending personal storytelling with larger societal themes, according to Bates.
The event is free and open to the public, though registration is encouraged through the library.
For those unable to attend, the film will be available to stream for free on the PBS app beginning April 6.
Key Facts:
• Free screening of “The Tallest Dwarf” at Mary Wood Weldon Memorial Library in Glasgow
• Event set for Thursday, April 2, at 6 p.m.
• Hosted by WKU Public Media and the library as part of Indie Lens Pop-Up
• Documentary follows director Julie Forrest Wyman’s exploration of dwarfism in her family
• Film examines identity, medical ethics, disability and belonging
• Organizers aim to lower stigma and spark community conversations
• Event is free and open to the public; registration encouraged
• Film will stream free on the PBS app starting April 6
Gage Wilson with Glasgow News 1 contributed to this reporting.
