Hello, I’m Robin
Librarian & Comics ADvocate
I am the Head of Reference and Programming at the Woburn Public Library (MA). As an active member of the American Library Association’s Young Adult Library Services Association (YALSA) and Graphic Novels and Comics Round Table (GNCRT),
I advocate for comics in libraries, and due to my previous 18 years as a Teen Librarian I remain an advocate for supporting teens, teen literacy, creativity, and storytelling. I have served on multiple awards committees. I am the editor-in-chief of the graphic novel review website No Flying No Tights.
Books
I am the author of the Eisner Award nominated Understanding Manga and Anime (Libraries Unlimited, 2007). I have also written several chapters for books on working with teens, as well as best practices relating to comics and manga in libraries.
Articles and Chapters
I write articles, chapters, and features for a range of publications, including Library Journal, School Library Journal, and Voice of Youth Advocates (VOYA). I also contribute to the Good Comics for Kids blog at School Library Journal.
Website
In 2002, I created the graphic novels and comics review website No Flying No Tights, and have continued in my role as Editor-in-Chief to this day.
Consulting
Curious about the connections between libraries, comics, and fandom? I am happy to draw on over twenty years of experience in the field of librarianship and working with comics and book publishers to help you better understand both worlds.
Events
I have presented and participated in panels at a wide range of events from small library workshops to national conventions. A notable selection include the American Library Association national conferences, San Diego Comic-Con, the Toronto Comic Arts Festival, New York Comic-Con, and the Feria Internacional del Libro de Lima (Lima International Book Fair).
Speaking
I present in-person and virtual workshops on a variety of topics from the basics of comics and building collections to specific presentations on Japanese manga, gender and comics, and fandom.
Years as a Teen Librarian
Awards Committees
Years in Comics and Libraries
Panels and Presentations
how do libraries, comics, and fandom intersect?
let me be your guide.
Embrace Comics
Learn about the details of the comics format! I love discussing how and why comics work, the different kinds of literacy comics engage, and the wide variety of stories available in the format.
Discover Libraries
Libraries provide all kinds of stories, spaces, and formats. While I concentrate on comics in libraries and teen services, contact me if you have an idea outside the box relating to libraries!
Understand Fandom
Fandom of all kinds drives the interests, creativity, and engagement of many readers. Fandom going from an anonymous endeavor to a publicly declared identity has changed how readers interact with their favorite stories and creators. Learn how fandom impacts everything in library work, including readers’ advisory, event planning, and collection development.
