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Research Articles

Sustainable Futures for Comics Collecting

ORCID Icon, ORCID Icon & ORCID Icon
Pages 235-251 | Published online: 28 May 2024
 

ABSTRACT

Using survey data collected in 2023, this study explores issues around comics collections in academic libraries. In addition to gaining an understanding of the origins of several major academic library collections and current resource support for these collections and associated services, the study looks at the extent to which institutions are implementing measures for the long-term sustainability and preservation of these collections. The researchers found that the historic indifference to comics in an academic setting has resulted in the creation of hodgepodge collections with inconsistent approaches to collection development, staffing, outreach, and long-term growth. Considering the increased acceptance of comics in such settings, Flota, Thacker, and Larsen suggest that it is past time for institutions to be more intentional in planning and sustaining comics collections and services in academic libraries.

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author(s).

Notes

1. For a list of formal Comics Studies academic programs, see: https://spinweaveandcut.com/comics-programs/.

2. Donations are welcome and even asked for, but collectibility is a factor that can inform what comics are donated. Many web vendors and large-scale comic shops are now actively hunting to find materials to sell and are actively advertising their willingness to buy collections. With many donors choosing a substantial cash payment over a tax write-off, the probability of institutions serendipitously acquiring donations of rare comics has decreased.

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