CCPL struggled with teen engagement and library program participation in a county where teens are either over-scheduled or they do not see the library as part of their lives at all. The Comic-Con became a tool to encourage awareness of the library, participation in learning activities and an opportunity to connect with other comic fans. CCPL also wanted to encourage checkouts of a newly-developed graphic novel collection as a means of increasing reading for pleasure.

This program is a true community festival — it takes the over the branch and turns it into a true community hub. The event has all of the traditional elements of a Comic-Con, but stays true to the library’s mission by fostering learning and access in the form of free workshops and graphic novel checkouts. It is accessible for everyone in the community since there is no entrance fee. It is conveniently located for our residents. There are no expectations to purchase anything, and all ages are welcome.

Since a primary goal was to promote the CCPL graphic novel collection, we were gratified to see that graphic novel checkouts represent up to 51% of circulation at Meadowdale Library on the day of Comic-Con. Since 2013, the annual Comic-Con has consistently attracted 2,000-3,000 people from all over the county and even region to a branch that usually sees 250 visits on a Saturday.