JOINT BASE ELMENDORF-RICHARDSON, Alaska —
The Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson Library is scheduled to offer service members and families an opportunity to shed their day-to-day uniforms and don costumes at the annual Comic Con Jan. 26 from 1 to 3 p.m.
“Originally, the program was aimed at young Soldiers and Airmen because of their interest in comics and graphic novels at that age, but it really morphed into a family program,” said Jody Evans, 673d Force Support Squadron library technician. “The idea for the program came from another library, and when I saw that they had more than 500 attendees, I thought it would be a great way to get people involved.”
After seeing the idea become a success in the last few years, staff decided to plan the event activities around families.
“The library staff has spent three months preparing for the event and will offer activities for all ages,” said Pamela Medolo, 673d FSS library director. “This will be the fifth event. In the first year there were 100 attendees and last year we had around 400, so we’re expecting quite a turnout.”
Throughout the event, people of all ages will be able to partake of various contests and activities, including a costume contest for adults, teens, and children, toddler sensory tables and a selfie station.
“Beginning around 10 a.m., a Magic the Gathering tournament will be hosted,” Evans said. “We’re really looking forward to it, and have extended the hours for the tournament until 4:30 p.m.”
“Super Hero Boot Camp” will be available for children who wish to earn their super hero status after completing the obstacle course.
Children will be able to create superhero capes and draw heroes or villains at craft stations to add to the fun. The Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtle slime demonstration is also a great stop before hitting the photo booth for free pictures.
For adults interested in testing their knowledge, a trivia contest will offer the opportunity to win prizes.
If a once-a-year comic con isn’t enough, the Library offers a comic book trade and swap program available year-round.
“You can bring in your comics to the library and swap them out for free,” Evans said. “We hope to keep the trading going and encourage people to keep bringing more comics in. If there is anyone who would like to donate comics to the exchange program, we would gladly take them.”
Evans also said the library is looking for volunteers for the event this year. People can sign up to help with building and setting up the stations the day before, facilitate during the event or assist in clean-up after the event. Personnel can sign up to volunteer until Jan. 25.
For more information or to volunteer, call 384-1640.