Adult graphic novel readers: Their opinions, awareness and usage of public libraries’ graphic novel collections

Abstract

Research Problem: This study examined adult graphic novel readers and their usage, awareness and opinions on public libraries’ graphic novel collections. This study examined the collected data through the theoretical framework of fandom to assess whether fandom influences adults’ opinions and usage of public libraries’ graphic novel collections.

Methodology: This study used a mixed methods approach to gathering data where both a qualitative interview and a self-completed questionnaire were used. The sample population of the qualitative interviews were any adult graphic novel readers, regardless of whether they borrowed graphic novels from a public library. The quantitative questionnaire was interested in obtaining data from all graphic novel readers.

Results: In total there were 69 responses to the quantitative questionnaires and six face-to face interviews were conducted with adult graphic novel readers. The results obtained indicated that public libraries’ graphic novel collections have a loyal following of users in which adults are the majority users. Overall there was only slight satisfaction towards public libraries’ graphic novel collections with many participants indicating various improvements public libraries could make to customer interaction including. These included an increase in titles and improvements to the layout/organisation of the graphic novel collections.

The results indicated that certain traits of fandom were present amongst the participants and this had some effect on their usage of public libraries’ graphic novel collections. However, other characteristics relating to fandom were almost non-existent amongst participants.

Implications: This research unearths further information on the New Zealand graphic novel reader demographic. In particular this research examines the role fandom plays for graphic novel readers and how this is linked to graphic novel readers’ use and opinions on public libraries’ graphic novel collections. This research provides public libraries with a list of potential improvements they can make to improve their collections and also provides them with a deeper understanding of their graphic novel reader customers. This research also found similarities and differences from previous literature related to graphic novels and public library use which warrants further investigation.