The MacKenzie Theatre, located on the ground floor of Swem Library, serves as an instructional and event space primarily supporting library instruction, film screenings, and W&M department-sponsored events, such as lectures, panel discussions and book talks, excluding department meetings and/or trainings.
The 2026 renovation of this theatre was made possible through the generosity of Earle A. MacKenzie ’74, in loving memory of his wife, Glenna Bowman MacKenzie ’74. Glenna enjoyed studying, alongside her future husband Earle, on the second floor of Swem Library. Read more
Space usage policy:
- Reserving the theatre: The theatre may be reserved by William & Mary faculty and staff using the online booking form. Student and non-W&M organization reservations are generally not permitted except for library-partnered events.
- All theatre reservations are moderated and must be approved by library staff. You will receive a booking confirmation email when your event is approved. Please allow 48 business hours for a response to your booking request.
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A designated contact person for the booking must be present for the entirety of the event/class.
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Food and drink are not permitted in the theatre.
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Maximum capacity: 70
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The theatre is ADA/handicap accessible and features designated wheelchair spaces.
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Film screening for a class: All streaming video services in the library’s collections allow group usage for class and teaching purposes, without the need to purchase performance rights. This includes the use of DVDs for class and teaching purposes.
Other film screenings: There are copyright rules for screenings of films not shown for classes. If the film selected is in our library collection, it may come with performance rights. Otherwise, there may be a cost related to the screening. Costs for performance rights will be billed to the host department. For assistance on obtaining performance rights for a film, please contact your library liaison.
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Event receptions: The outdoor patios are available for receptions. For usage policies and to reserve a patio, visit our Patios & Outdoor Tabling page. We cannot provide event space for indoor receptions, as the classrooms are in high demand and are only reservable for library instruction, and the Botetourt Gallery is not ADA/handicap accessible.
Important Reminder: If you need to cancel your event for any reason, you must contact libraryoutreach@wm.edu as soon as possible.
Technology & Capabilities
The MacKenzie Theatre is a fully equipped presentation and screening space designed for lectures, film viewing, performances, and hybrid events.
Audio & Video:
- 7.1 surround sound system for immersive playback from the in-room 4K Blu-ray player and compatible devices
- 4K laser projector with large-format projection screen
- Six-channel wireless microphone system (handheld and lavalier options available) for presenters and audience Q&A
- Integrated lectern PC for presentations and media playback
- HDMI inputs at the lectern for bring-your-own-device (BYOD) laptops
Videoconferencing & Hybrid Events:
The theatre includes a dedicated camera and microphone system designed specifically for large-room videoconferencing and hybrid events.
Rather than relying on a laptop’s built-in camera and microphone, videoconferencing platforms such as Zoom or Microsoft Teams can use the room’s professional AV system, which provides:
- Multiple camera angles, including views of the presenter and in-room audience
- Microphone pickup optimized for speakers and audience participation
- A more natural experience for remote participants during panels, lectures, and Q&A sessions
This makes the space well suited for large-audience videoconferencing, hybrid lectures, and streamed events.
Assisted Listening:
- AuraCast® assisted listening system using Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE), allowing compatible personal devices (such as smartphones or hearing aids) to connect wirelessly
- Four assisted-listening receivers with headphone support available for use in the room