Liz Burns, from the New Jersey State Library and
Carlie Webber, from the Bergen County Cooperative Library System, spoke about teen
fandom that has been around for decades but has been brought into the limelight by fanatical
Twi-
hards (Twilight fans). For teens today reading is no longer a solitary activity. If you have ever had a Harry Potter or Twilight event at your library you understand that being a fan of a book or a
TV show means more than just enjoying the story, it means immersing yourself in the culture.
Fandom as a culture includes
fanfiction,
fanart,
cosplay and more. If you are not familiar with these terms here is a short
definition:
- fanfiction: fiction written by fans using the characters of the original work.
- fanart: art based on the original work.
- cosplay: fans dressing up as characters from a book, movie or TV show.
Many
fandom activities take place on the
Internet through online communities and blogs. This is a great social activity for teens that helps them find others interested in the same activities and stories as they are. The library can also play a key role in
bringing teen fans together. Activities like Harry Potter release parties and Eclipse proms allow teens to share their love of the story with others and feel like they are part of a community.
Here are some ways that you can encourage a teen fan culture in your library.
- Book release parties
- Cosplay design contests
- Fanfiction writing workshops
- Fanart displays
- Anime clubs
If teens can find a community to belong in your library they will keep coming back for other programs as well. Give them a space of their own to express themselves.
Fandom as a culture includes fanfiction, fanart, cosplay and more. If you are not familiar with these terms here is a short definition:
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