Costumes and comics at the library

Councillor Cathy Zeiger as Wonder Woman, promoting Comic Fest with library users and members of Cosplay in 2019, when the event was last staged at the Cairns City Library.

Cairns City Library, Queensland, tapped into the ongoing success of the Marvel and DC movie franchises for Comic Fest weekend last month.

Local families were invited to don their favourite superhero costume, dress as movie villain, or pretend they were a Manga character for a morning of free activities dedicated to all things comic and cosplay at the Library.

Councillor, Cathy Zeiger said Comic Fest demonstrated the diversity of literature and activities available at Cairns Libraries.

“Modern libraries are so much more than aisles of books.

“Across our Cairns Libraries branches, we have a great range of comic books and graphic novels available to suit readers from primary school age and up.

“Reading is such an important part of life and these types of books are great as they often engage the most reluctant of readers and promote literacy.”

Those attending this year’s event were treated to a comic art workshop by artist and illustrator Julie Haysom, a musical performance by Jelly Oshen, and a variety of tabletop and board games.

Younger attendees were entertained by First 5 Forever
fun, while the STEAM Explorer Stations included cardboard hero station, digital Manga creation and augmented reality activities.

Attendees dressed-up as their favourite comic, Manga or superhero character with prizes offered for best dressed and best low budget DIY costume.

“We all know little ones love the chance to dress up, but getting in costume can also be heaps fun for us ‘older kids’ and give parents a great way to engage with their children.”