Graphic novels in New Zealand public libraries : a case study of the Palmerston North City Library

Abstract

Graphic novels are a relatively new phenomenon in public libraries around the world, and especially in New Zealand. Originating from comics, graphic novels have proved to be very popular, resulting in increasing numbers of libraries including graphic novels in their collections. The purpose of this study was to examine the place of graphic novels in New Zealand public libraries. This was done using a questionnaire to discover the experiences of public librarians around New Zealand, a case study of the Palmerston North City Library's graphic novel collection, and a survey of the readers of that collection. The results of this study indicated that there is a wide range of libraries with graphic novels in New Zealand, although the success of these collections has depended on the size of the library and the number of graphic novels within the collection. Graphic novel readers do not appear to fulfil the stereotypes expected of comics readers. Graphic novels are extremely popular with users of the Palmerston North City Library. Graphic novels have proved valuable in extending the readership of other library users, but there is no evidence that non-traditional library users use the collection. Most of the larger libraries have had challenges in setting up and maintaining their graphic novel collections, but the benefits have made their collections worthwhile.