Start Date
19-7-2022 11:15 AM
End Date
19-7-2022 12:15 PM
Description
Library comics conventions are opportunities to build community, promote collections, and cultivate joy. Before the COVID-19 pandemic, Oregon State University’s Valley Library had just started exploring ways to connect our campus with the Pacific Northwest’s vibrant comics scene. Although we scrapped our original plans, we were able to adapt by researching alternative programming, strengthening our community relationships, and planning for the future.
Valley Library’s comic book programming was further impacted by a hiring freeze and the departure of several major comics programming boosters. Ultimately, we continued the collection development project that was previously intended to launch on Free Comic Book Day. We also investigated online conventions and continued to review literature for advice on creating the best possible in-person events for the future.
While the last few years severely challenged the limits of normal, making space for joy and community has provided a helpful boost for students, faculty, and librarians.
Preserving Comics Programming During Times of Institutional Change
Library comics conventions are opportunities to build community, promote collections, and cultivate joy. Before the COVID-19 pandemic, Oregon State University’s Valley Library had just started exploring ways to connect our campus with the Pacific Northwest’s vibrant comics scene. Although we scrapped our original plans, we were able to adapt by researching alternative programming, strengthening our community relationships, and planning for the future.
Valley Library’s comic book programming was further impacted by a hiring freeze and the departure of several major comics programming boosters. Ultimately, we continued the collection development project that was previously intended to launch on Free Comic Book Day. We also investigated online conventions and continued to review literature for advice on creating the best possible in-person events for the future.
While the last few years severely challenged the limits of normal, making space for joy and community has provided a helpful boost for students, faculty, and librarians.
Comments
Conference Proceeding Abstract:
This article outlines the comic and zine programming at Oregon State University’s Valley Library before, during, and as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. It offers techniques for investigating pop culture events during times of institutional confusion, connecting with physically distanced patrons, and methods for maintaining joyful, sustainable relationships with stakeholders including library staff. The programming supported in this article touches on the literary and artistic aspects of zines and comics, but is primarily centered in pleasure, affinity-building, and self-directed, embodied learning.