Cosplay in Libraries

How to Embrace Costume Play in Your Library

By (author) Ellyssa Kroski

Publication date:

23 October 2015

Length of book:

168 pages

Publisher

Rowman & Littlefield Publishers

Dimensions:

262x182mm
7x10"

ISBN-13: 9781442256477

Cosplay, comics, anime, and geek culture have exploded into the mainstream over recent years and have resulted in a thriving community of costume enthusiasts and pop culture fans. Today’s cosplayers find inspiration on the pages of comics, classic literature, and even history, as well as film, television, and video games to inform their creative and oftentimes elaborate ensembles. They utilize all manner of materials and techniques including 3D printers, thermoplastics, craft foam, fabric and more to design their costumes and props.

Libraries on the leading edge are already embracing this new worldwide sensation by integrating cosplay into their programming and events. Learn all about the world of cosplay and how you can host cosplay events, workshops, makerspaces, clubs, and more in your library!

This one-stop guide includes quotes and interviews with librarians who are incorporating cosplay into their programming as well as with cosplayers. You’ll also find 32 full-color photographs of cosplay in action to give you both ideas and inspiration for getting started!

Preface
Chapter One: What is Cosplay?
Chapter Two: Getting Started: Tools of the Trade
Chapter Three: Places to Go, People to See
Chapter Four: Cosfamous
Chapter Five: Libraries Embracing Cosplay
Chapter Six: Cosplay Programming for Libraries
Project 1: Host a Comic or Anime Con in your Library! 
Project 2: How to Host a Cosplay Contest
Project 3: How to Form a Cosplay Club in Your Library
Project 4: How to Host a Cosplay Props 3D Printing Event
Project 5: How to Host a Create Your Own Armor with Worbla Event
Project 6: How to Host an Armor Painting Event
Project 7: Budget Cosplay Event: How to Create an Infinity Gauntlet with Craft Foam
Project 8: Budget Cosplay Event: How to Create Cardboard Superhero Helmets
Project 9: Budget Cosplay Event: How to Create Papier Mache Minions
Project 10: How to Host a Cosplay Cards Workshop
Project 11: Host a Cosplay Web Presence Workshop
Project 12: Plan a Themed Cosplay Lock-In
Chapter Seven: Cosplay Issues, Tips, and Tricks
Chapter Eight: Must-Have Cosplay Resources

Appendix A: Cosplay Event Activities
Appendix B: Suppliers Directory
Appendix C: Cosplayers Directory
Appendix D: Photographers Directory
Appendix E: Cosplay Websites & Blogs Directory

Index
About the Author

In this volume, Kroski demonstrates her love of cosplay and argues for the inclusion of fandoms in the library space. Beginning with defining cosplay and the many different types of fandoms that participate, the author delves into the various ways that libraries can integrate cosplay into their collections and programming, citing several examples of institutions that are doing it successfully. Kroski’s direct address of the relevance of cosplay for fostering learning also serves to educate those who do not see its role in the library. While there are many books on cosplay and the culture surrounding it, this work includes a plethora of resources and ideas for a variety of budgets and locations, as well as helpful advice on the challenges planners may face. Verdict: Kroski provides an essential reference for librarians and library staff interested in bringing cosplay into their setting. This work will be invaluable for those who are unsure of how to get started and are looking for a guide to walk them through the process. The chapter on programming ideas will be particularly useful as the author clearly presents the key elements involved in putting an event together successfully.