'Harry Potter: A History of Magic' documentary with J.K. Rowling heading to BBC

When the British Library's Harry Potter exhibition opens in October, it won't be the only close look we get at the wizarding world. BBC announced that it would air a Harry Potter documentary in fall, in conjunction with the exhibition -- and featuring interviews with J.K. Rowling.

The History of Magic exhibition, set up in celebration of the 20th anniversary of publishing Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone, will feature magical objects and manuscripts from history that fit into the world and lore of Harry Potter. It will also have original drawings and notes from Rowling and illustrator Jim Kay.

The BBC documentary will feature exhibition pieces as they're being set up and explained, and with Rowling's two cents on her previously archived notes. According to a BBC Two press release:

Harry Potter: A History of Magic is to be shown on BBC Two and will follow the exhibition in the run up to its opening at the British Library, as the ancient texts, artefacts and artwork are put on display. Harry Potter: A History Of Magic includes an interview with J.K. Rowling talking about some of the personal items she has donated to the exhibition whilst readings from famous fans playfully recreate some of the best loved spells, potions and magical moments from the series, exploring the origins of the world of Hogwarts, from basilisks through to broomsticks.

Bloomsbury, the Harry Potter books' U.K. publisher, announced in July that it would publish two companion books: Harry Potter: A History of Magic - The Book of The Exhibition and Harry Potter - A Journey Through A History of Magic. The books will be published outside the U.K. as well, and you can expect a U.S. distributor to jump on that documentary quicker than you can say "Accio!"

Harry Potter: A History of Magic does not yet have a release date.