Learning Series: The Little Things that Run the World (Documentary)
2026-11-10 18:30 - 20:30 (America/New_York) | Barrington Public Library, 281 County Rd,, Barrington, RI, 02806, United States
Join us for THE LITTLE THINGS THAT RUN THE WORLD, an award-winning 105-minute documentary that introduces viewers to a diverse group of scientists, nature lovers, gardeners, farmers and general bug enthusiasts in exploring the importance of flying insects amid rapid declines in their numbers.
The event will take place on Tuesday, Nov. 10, at 6:30 pm in the Salem Family Auditorium at the Barrington Public Library, our partner in the Learning Series. A discussion will follow the film for those who are interested.
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View the trailer

This most numerous group of animals on the planet by far – three quarters of all species – have also been called the “glue of life” on Earth. They literally hold ecosystems together. Insects were the first animals to evolve flight more than 400 million years ago, and they survived all five of the known mass extinctions since then. But there is evidence that the pace of decline among insects in parts of the world today is fast approaching the levels of previous catastrophes.
What this means for the rest of life on Earth, including humans, is the focus of THE LITTLE THINGS THAT RUN THE WORLD. The film documents the mysteries of the declines along side creative and heroic human efforts to change the course of evolutionary history. What is causing this extinction crisis? What can be done to reverse the trend? THE LITTLE THINGS THAT RUN THE WORLD attempts to find answers to those questions and more.
Film Festivals and Experts Applaud the Film
“This year, we are incredibly excited to honor a film that championed a crucial environmental theme with artistic mastery, transforming what could be a purely academic subject into an accessible and deeply engaging cinematic experience. More importantly, it leaves us with a sense of wonder and a gentle, optimistic call to action, inspiring us to appreciate and protect the delicate balance of our natural world. It’s a mesmerizing exploration of the vital yet often overlooked role of insects in our global ecosystem. It is both scientifically rigorous and visually stunning, taking us on a journey into the intricate world of these tiny creatures, and reminding us how fundamental they are to life as we know it.” Lighthouse International Film Festival Jury
“THE LITTLE THINGS THAT RUN THE WORLD is a passionate and comprehensive deep dive into the ecological crisis facing flying insects and the ripple effects on global biodiversity.” Doc Screenings International Film Festival
“THE LITTLE THINGS THAT RUN THE WORLD is a visual treat! You’ll come for the incredible insect photography and stay for the important lessons on land use, habitat disruption, native plants, and avoiding monocultures. A visually entrancing film that reminds us of the perils of ignoring the needs of our invertebrate neighbors.” Chris Stelzig, Executive Director, Entomological Society of America
“What a terrific and timely summary of the global status of insects! E.O. Wilson and more than a dozen other world-renown scientists provide insightful critiques of the anthropogenic causes of insect declines and what we can do going forward to protect insect biodiversity. The stunning photography, sobering statistics, and insightful interviews make the film a valuable resource for students, educators, conservation biologists, policy makers, and environmentalists looking to build a more sustainable and just future for humanity and nature.” David Wagner, Professor of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, University of Connecticut.
Thanks to our 2026 Learning Series Sponsors!

Charles E. Millard General Contractors, Inc.
Pods Swimming, East Providence
Jaffe Orthodontics, Barrington
