Comic Books in the Library?

Comic books and graphic novels have come a long way. Within the last 10-15 years, there has been a strong and growing movement to “legitimize” the graphic novel and comic book genre in school libraries. There is still a long road ahead. Convincing librarians to spend even sparingly on a graphics novel section is difficult and the practice of incorporating graphic novels into the curriculum is still in its infancy.
Elizabeth M. Downey writes in the academic journal Reference and User Services Quarterly:
“The education community has begun to embrace graphic novels as a way to reach reluctant readers; engage visual learners; and improve comprehension and interpretation of themes, literary devices, and social issues, among other topics. As graphic novels are increasingly used in the classroom, students majoring in elementary and secondary education should have access to these materials as they prepare for their future careers. Making graphic novels a specific part of the curriculum and instruction collection supports the academic library’s mission to meet the research and training needs of the faculty, staff, and students.”
In a school library, graphic novels regularly fly off the shelves and are checked out over and over again — this doesn’t happen with many other library resources — they pique certain student interest in a way that other reading materials do not.
Hopefully, the recent creation of the graphic novel club here at CHSN will help us build up that section of the library collection for future interested students.

For further exploration:
National Association of Comics Educators
A variety of resources, including course syllabi, lesson plans, classroom exercises, study guides, articles, and reference tools. Resources are intended for college-level instruction, but the site provides a wealth of ideas, some of which could be adapted for younger students. Many resources are contributed by comic book professionals, including Trina Robbins, Jessica Abel, and Stan Sakai. The site is maintained by James Sturm, an award-winning comic book artist, writer, (The Golem's Mighty Swi ng ) and former faculty member at the Savannah College of Art and Design.
Secret Origin of Good Readers
A resource guide for teachers on using comic books in the classroom. Discusses the relationship between comic books and reading skills, provides lists of recommended comics and graphic novels for children and teens, and offers ideas for classroom activities using comic books and comics concepts. Edited by Robyn A. Hill, with contributions by teacher Kristine Rodriguez, artist Richard Jenkins, and others. First presented at San Diego 's Comic Con International in 2001.
ORCA
The Organized Readers of Comics Associated is an international membership association whose mission is to promote the reading and enjoyment of comic books. The group encourages the formation of local chapters.
Comics in the Classroom
An excellent site geared toward educators and filled with interesting ways to incorporate comics and graphic novels into lesson plans.
Useful Websites About Comic Books,Anime, Manga, and graphic novels in general
Comic Book Collecting
An introduction to the hobby of collecting comics and how to start your comic book collection.
Guide to Anime and Manga
Brief introduction to anime and manga , including a well-written overview, a list of recommended titles, and a bibliography of books and periodicals.
Shoujo Manga
Excellent introduction to Shoujo manga -- manga -style comics written by women for female readers. Includes a description of the medium, a history of manga , lists of classic and recommended comics, bibliographies, and links to other sites. Maintained by cultural anthropologist and translator Matt Thorn.
No Flying, No Tights
Well-written reviews of graphic novels organized by genre, with indexes by title, publisher, and creator. Maintained by library science student Robin Brenner and her friends.