Free admission for old-time movies at the library.

Last year when librarian and film lover Wally Clark envisioned regularly screening classic movies in the meeting room of the Port Orchard library, it seemed somewhat of a pipe dream.

Attendance was minimal. The projector was a simple laptop set up with an awkward projection angle and one whispering speaker so soft that the ruffling of popcorn bags would sometimes obscure the soundtrack.

But now, with the branch’s Spyglass Film Appreciation Group firmly established, and a new projection set up employed — including a portable sound system — Clark’s dream of free classic cinema in a group setting is becoming more and more of a reality.

This Thursday will be another milestone as the Port Orhcard Library kicks off its second annual Film Noir Movie Series, the series that started it all — a month-long film noir festival with screenings at 6 p.m. every Thursday night, 87 Sidney Ave. in Port Orchard. Refreshments are provided and movie-goers are invited to stay after the feature for discussion.

“It’s not going to the cineplex, but it’s still a pretty nice set up,” Clark said. “And the price is right — free admission.”

The free film series falls in line with the library’s mission of providing affordable entertainment to the public, something most everyone could go for in economical times like these. And with knowledgeable film buffs like Clark to chat with, it’s entertainment that’s actually educational.

The series kicks off with “Sunset Blvd.” (194 starring William Holden and Gloria Swanson at 6 p.m. July 3 followed by “Ace in the Hole” (1951) starring Kirk Douglas at the same time July 10.