Robert G. Weiner - Graphic Novels and Comics in Libraries and Archives [2010] [A]

To say that graphic novels, comics, and other forms of sequential art have become a major part of popular culture and academia would be a vast understatement. Now an established component of library and archive collections across the globe, graphic novels are proving to be one of the last kinds of print publications actually gaining in popularity. Full of practical advice and innovative ideas for librarians, educators, and archivists, this book provides a wide-reaching look at how graphic novels and comics can be used to their full advantage in educational settings. Topics include the historically tenuous relationship between comics and librarians; the aesthetic value of sequential art; the use of graphic novels in library outreach services; collection evaluations for both American and Canadian libraries; cataloging tips and tricks; and the swiftly growing realm of webcomics.

Editorial Reviews
From Booklist
Does the world really need another manifesto on graphic novels? Absolutely—especially this engaging collection of essays from an array of established experts and aficionados featuring quotations, charts, graphs, statistics, insights, and thoughtful reflection. Twenty-nine very brief selections—most under 10 pages—address multiple aspects of this multifaceted genre, spanning basic background information, audiences, recommended titles, promotion of selections and programming, cataloging, and so on through philosophical musings on the ontology of comic-book art. Meticulously researched and referenced, this manual could easily become the standard introductory textbook for library science and university graphic-literature classes, and it will also be of interest to practicing professionals looking for collection-development and management tips. --Kathleen McBroom

Review
"Rich...more data, coverage of academic libraries, and Canadian perspectives are collected here than in previous books on graphic novels in libraries...recommended for al.l" --Library Journal

"Extremely well organized with rich content...excellent...highly recommended." --Reference & User Services Quarterly

"Provides some scholarly analysis, making it worth considering as an introductory textbook." --American Libraries.

About the Author
Robert G. Weiner is associate humanities librarian at Texas Tech University. His works have been published in the Journal of Popular Culture, Public Library Quarterly, Journal of American Culture, International Journal of Comic Art and Popular Music and Society. He lives in Lubbock, Texas.