Teens get lesson in comics during library media swap

Instead of checking out books, Eva Fournier of Evans came to the Columbia County Library to swap.

The 15-year-old Evans High School student was one of about a dozen teens and adults gathered at the Columbia County Library on Nov. 18 at a Young Adult Media Swap to learn about the story lines, history and collectible value of traditional comic books and the Japanese form of graphic novels, known as Manga.

"I am a complete freak when it comes to books," Fournier said. "I want to grow up to become a librarian and an author."

She found another fan of Manga in 14-year-old Laura Cooper of Martinez, but neither found the titles of Manga they wanted to get in trade.

Clay Cushman, a manager of The Book Exchange on Bobby Jones Expressway, gave a lesson on the history of comics and discussed which comics or Manga are appropriate for different ages. He also explained why certain comics are more valuable than others.

He offered tips to comic fans who collect not only for the value but because they enjoy the stories and art. For those who might be short on cash to purchase pricey, out-of-print originals, he recommended "trades," or collections of five or six monthly comics that contain a complete story line.

"For me, comics are meant to be read," Cushman said, adding that for years, comics have fought for legitimacy in the literary world. He said that he would rather have his children read comics than watch television.

"If you've ever cried reading a book, comics can do the same thing," he said.

Anita Patterson, the young adult librarian at the main branch, said that though turnout was light, the media swap might return in the summer.