Librarians Land in NY for Comic Con
RSSBy Rocco Staino -- School Library Journal, 02/11/2009
Librarians from around the country traveled to New York City last weekend to attend Comic Con, the pop culture carnival of comics, graphic literature, movies, and games.
Tamora Pierce, Mo Williams, and Jeff Kinney—all familiar names to librarians—joined comic book artist Stan Lee, book designer Chip Kidd, the cast of the television show Chuck, and many other comic legends at the three-day event from February 6–8.
School Library Journal caught up with some of the many librarians (none of whom were dressed as comic heroes) to ask their reaction to the event.
Zahra M. Baird, Cineaste/Library Consultant, Kimberly Bolan & Associates, IN:
“This is my fourth year attending Comic Con. It’s a great way to keep on top of the latest in comics, graphic novels, anime, manga, video games, movies, and TV shows. Libraries should use popular culture as a springboard for the broadening of collections, services, and programs.”
Lora Leibrandt, Lewis & Clark Middle School, and Jo Ogarro, Central Park Elementary School, Omaha Public Schools:
“Our library coordinator at Omaha Public Schools, Gail Formanack, encouraged us to attend. The graphic format is very popular with students, and unfortunately, there are not a lot of resources to help in selection. We need to know before we purchase a book if there are naked bodies in it! We are looking for graphic format books that are library bound. When we return to Nebraska we will conduct staff development in our district.”
Christi Tilton, library school student and teacher, New Britain High School, CT:
“I am here looking for books for my students. It’s a perfect opportunity to see what’s available.
Jackie Biger at Comic Con
Jackie Biger, children’s librarian, Amherst Town Library, NH:
“I have always been a fan of comics. I am a children’s librarian, and when I first arrived at my library we didn’t have any graphic literature. We now have a collection that numbers 230 titles. One of my favorites is Art Spiegelman’s Jack and the Box (Toon Bks., 2008). I know that some people have said it is creepy, but it is creepy in a funny way. It is definitely a safe creep-out.”
