Purpose
The Graphic Novel collection is a physical collection of circulating graphic novels for recreational use by students, faculty, and staff located together on the second floor of the library. It may also be used in support of courses, for example, Creative Writing 210, Graphic Storytelling – Introductory.
Institutional Context
The Graphic Novel collection development policy is coordinated with the Penfield Library Collection Management Policy. Although development of the Graphic Novel collection should be mindful of the criteria outlined in the library's collection development policy (i.e. representation of diverse cultures, classes, races, sexes, genders, abilities, and national origins, etc.), additional criteria specific to Graphic Novels are outlined in the following sections of this policy.
In all other regards (i.e. deselection, collection maintenance, etc.), the Graphic Novel collection development policy shall follow the procedures outlined in the Penfield Library Collection Management Policy.
Collection Scope
The collection scope will guide both collection development (i.e. purchase of new materials) and deselection (i.e. removal / replacement of outdated materials).
Subjects
The collection will focus on graphic fiction titles geared toward young adults and adults.
The library currently owns, and may purchase, graphic fiction and non-fiction titles geared toward children. These titles will be housed in the JUV and JUV pic collections. Some examples include:
The library also owns, and purchases, graphic nonfiction titles. Most of these titles will be housed in the Main Collection; memoirs will be located in the Graphic Novel collection. Some examples of nonfiction, non-memoir titles include:
Format
This collection does not include compilations, collections, anthologies, comic strips, or oversized titles. The collection focuses on one to three volume graphic novels. If a series is requested, librarians with responsibility for the collection will consult and make a decision. Ebooks are occasionally purchased, though they are not the preferred format.
Selection Sources
Librarians with collection development responsibilities for the Graphic Novel Collection may wish to consult the following sources for purchase recommendations:
- ALA Graphic Novels & Comics Round Table (GNCRT) Best Graphic Novels for Adults Reading List (annual list)
- NYPL Best Books (annual list)
- Eisner Award nominees and winners (annual list)
- Harvey Award nominees and winners (annual list)
- Ringo Award nominees and winners (annual list)
Last updated January 2025