Fans of Manga and Anime should make sure they pay a visit to the Family Library over the next few weeks.

The library, in Douglas, is staging a season to celebrate Japanese culture and to let everyone know all about its fantastic collection of Manga and Anime.

Librarian in charge Mary Cousins said: ‘We have great collections of Manga and Anime – possibly the biggest collections to loan in the Island - that are  really popular with tweens and teens all the way to adults, just like in Japan.'

‘So we thought it would be a good opportunity to let everyone know about what we have here.’

Manga comics and graphic novels have become hugely popular around the world with their definitive style of animation.

Similarly, anime is a specific style of animation originating from Japan and known for its colourful and vibrant graphics.

‘Anime films are fantastical and exciting,’ said Mary. ‘Studio Ghibli's films created by Hayao Miyazaki are world-wide family favourites.’
 
There will be a series of workshops as part of the Japan – Islands of Culture season, starting with an Origami workshop hosted by Mike Devereau on Saturday, January 18, from 1pm to 2pm, ?5 per place.

On January 25, well known animator Gary Myers will be holding a Manga character drawing workshop (12.30pm-2pm, ?5) and February 1 will see a workshop with Jade Boylen on the making of traditional Teru Teru Bozu dolls (further details to be confirmed).

Throughout the season, there will be displays on show at the library, plus a competition to create your own Kawaii character.

A Kawaii character is anything that is cute or with a happy face.

In addition there will be ‘drop-in’ activities to do throughout the season, plus information and displays about Japan.

To book places on any of the workshops, contact the library on 640650, or call in. The library is just next to the children’s playground in Westmoreland Road.

Photo - Charlie Hartley is pictured with his decorated Koinobori fish at a Japanese craft event in the Family Library.