Love Comics? Join the Online Con

If you are interested in reading or writing comic books, the Virtual Library Comic Convention (VLCC) is right around the corner! On July 30th, get ready for a half-day of events covering topics from constructing strong stories through images rather than words to fundamentals in comic book art 101. The VLCC will offer engaging and fun-filled sessions with talented artists and writers that provide something unique for all participants. For example, 1,000 Words: Visual Storytelling Through Comics & Graphic Novels will consider questions of how to make a visual story stand out and appeal to readers and further discuss potential challenges for both artists and authors. Graphic novelists J. N. Monk (Enough Space for Everyone Else) and Jason Walz (Last Pick) will be featured in this program. Everyone is encouraged to attend VLCC, and further details for the program lineup can be found here. All sessions are completely free.

Due to COVID-19 restrictions, ready availability to printed materials may be limited for patrons. Accordingly, VLCC is offering over 4,000 comics, graphic novels, and children’s materials for free to all California residents this summer. All of the eBooks are available in an unlimited simultaneous use model accessed via geolocation, which means you won’t have to wait to access these materials. This project is intended to provide easy and direct access to digital resources while also supporting statewide summer reading programs for all ages during the COVID-19 period. More eBooks will be released throughout the summer from additional children’s, comic book, and science fiction publishers. The VLCC collection will be free to libraries and patrons in California through August 31st. To get started right away and learn more, visit the collection’s website.