November 21, 2018

Libraries nationwide might soon carry more comics and graphic novels, thanks to a move by The American Library Association (ALA). The ALA, which promotes libraries and library education around the globe, with over 45,000 members, has reorganized their Graphic Novel and Comics Member Initiative Group into the Graphic Novel Round Table. This new round table is the first approved ALA designated focus area in five years. 

Angela Boyle ′16 recently spoke with Carla Riemer, the Round Table’s Membership & Outreach Committee chair.

What is your general strategy for promoting graphic novels in libraries?

Our general strategy is to educate people about graphic novels and support people who are already using them. We help dispel misconceptions about graphic novels, show how they promote literacy (especially visual literacy), and inform people of the wide variety of stories and topics they can find in graphic form. We do this in person through panels and pop up libraries at conferences and conventions, and online through our social media platforms.

How does the group select graphic novels to promote?

We’re generally focused on the bigger picture of having people understand the value of the format, the wide range of content they’ll find there, and providing strategies to start, build and promote collections. When we have panels with creators or publishers, they will talk about their work, which we love, but we don’t necessarily choose specific graphic novels to promote.

What specific, near plans does the group have to promote graphic novels? Any upcoming events we can look forward to?

We have a presence at large comic conventions and library conferences, and will be on the ground at smaller local events as well. We also participate in webinars. We’re all over social media publicizing events we’re aware of that involve promoting comics and graphic novels.

Our upcoming events include ALA Midwinter in Seattle in January, C2E2 (Chicago Comic and Entertainment Expo) and Seattle’s Emerald City Comic Con, both in March. We’re also working on some smaller regional events. We will have details on our programming soon. Follow us on social media to stay up to date!

How can cartoonists get involved with the group?

Cartoonists can join ALA and add the round table to their membership. They can join as personal members or, if they have publishers, we encourage them to join as organizational members. They can also connect with us on social media.

Do you have a favorite graphic novel or two? Why those books?

Every time you ask me you’ll get a different answer, but today I’m loving Sarah Graley’s Kim Reaper: Grim Beginnings and Kim Reaper: Vampire Island (Oni Press, 2018). It’s a fun story with diverse characters and great art which manages to be creepy and cute at the same time. I’m looking forward to Bitter Root (Image Comics, 2018), the new comic by David Walker, Chuck Brown and Sanford Greene. It’s about family of monster hunters set in New York during the 1920’s Harlem Renaissance. The previews I’ve seen look amazing!

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Anyone can join ALA or the round table online.