Picture of Tray Scorza

Tray Scorza

Tray is a Library Assistant in the Adult Services Department at CDPL.

When you think of the library, you might picture shelves of classic literature or rows of popular novels. But one of our most exciting and fast-growing collections might surprise you: graphic novels. At Crawfordsville District Public Library, we’re proud to offer a wide selection of graphic novels for kids, young adults, and adults. These books combine powerful storytelling with eye-catching visual art, creating an engaging and immersive reading experience. Far from being just comic books, graphic novels span every genre from fantasy and memoir to history and science fiction.

For young readers, graphic novels often serve as a gateway into reading. The combination of literary elements hooks young readers immediately. Popular series like “Dog Man” by Dav Pilkey (J GN FIC Pilkey), “Amulet” by Kazu Kibuishi (J FIC Nor v.2), and “InvestiGators” by John Patrick Green (J GN FIC Green) capture kids’ imaginations while helping them build vocabulary and confidence. The mix of pictures and text keeps readers turning the page, and many parents have found these books to be the spark that gets their children excited about reading.

Our young adult collection includes heartfelt coming-of-age stories, fantasy adventures, and timely social commentaries. Titles like “Heartstopper” by Alice Oseman (YA GN FIC Ose v.1), “Five Nights at Freddy’s” by Scott Cawthon (YA GN FIC Cawthon v.3), and “Dragon Ball Z” by Akira Toriyama (YA GN FIC Toriyama v.1) offer diverse perspectives that resonate with young adult readers. These books not only entertain, they also encourage empathy, critical thinking, and connection.

Graphic novels aren’t just for younger readers. Our adult collection features award-winning titles like “The Walking Dead” by Robert Kirkman (GN FIC Kirkman Walking v.1), “Persepolis” by Marjane Satrapi (GN 921 Sat), “Watchmen” by Alan Moore (GN FIC Moo), and “Saga” by Brian K. Vaughan (GN FIC Vau v.1). These books tackle complex themes, including identity, history, and family with the kind of emotional depth and visual storytelling that stays with you long after the last page.

Whether you are a longtime comics fan or just curious to try something new, we invite and encourage you to explore the graphic novel section at CDPL. You can browse our collection in person or online. We also offer digital options through our library app Hoopla so you can read anywhere, anytime. This summer is a perfect time to pick up something different. Discover a new favorite author, revisit a classic series, or bring a young reader to find their next big adventure. Our staff are always happy to help you find a title that fits your interests. Stories come in all shapes and formats. Graphic novels remind us that reading is not just about words but about the experience, and sometimes pictures really are worth a thousand words. Visit Crawfordsville District Public Library and discover what’s waiting for you behind the covers of our ever-growing graphic novel collection.

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