About

ALIA Graphic

ALIA Graphic Novels and Comics is intended to be a resource and network for library and information professionals who are responsible for and/or interested in comics and graphic novels. The group aims to support library staff interested in all aspects of collection development, advocacy and programming related to graphic novels and comics.

Purpose and Goals

To promote comics and graphic novels to libraries, allied institutions and professional within the GLAMR sector, with a particular focus on Australian titles and creators
To collate new graphic novels releases and publish a monthly roundup of recommended titles for libraries
The creation and sharing of news and resources related to graphic novels in libraries
To provide networking and PD opportunities for library staff
To develop and carry out advocacy around comics as a medium, including educational, literacy, and engagement benefits
To connect and build bridges with Australian creators and publishers of comics and graphic novels
To establish a relationship of mutual benefit with the Comic Arts Awards of Australia

Committee

Meet the Committee

With massive thanks to Pauli Tree for committee portraits.

Iurgi Urrutia

Convenor

Iurgi Urrutia AALIA DCP is a librarian in a metro library in Melbourne (Naarm) with a background in media studies and education.

James Baker

Secretary

James is a librarian and library educator based in Melbourne (Naarm). For someone as wordy as he is, people are sometimes surprised that one of his favourite types of comics is the silent comic, entirely removing words and told through images only.

Marissa King

Treasurer

Marissa is a graduate of RMIT, with degrees in education and information management. As part of the JET program, Marissa taught English in Japan for five years and became thoroughly enchanted with manga and anime. Now Marissa devours web comics and enjoys stories in all formats.

Gabby Cundy

Social Media coordinator

Gabby is a Collection Development Librarian based in Western Sydney NSW. Gabby has worked in both school and public libraries for over 10 years and has a strong passion for middle grade literature.

Jade

Content Coordinator

Jade is a passionate library advocate and slightly obsessive reader, having worked across various public, school and academic library services. Currently working on Gadigal Country and researching the value of graphic novels in libraries.

Rebecca Teitzel

Collections & Resources

Rebecca Teitzel is the Library Collection Coordinator at a Queensland public library service, currently pursuing a master’s in Information Studies at Charles Sturt University. Experienced in library operations, with a focus on digital collections and graphic novels.

Mia Karvouniaris