Research project
Teenagers have been found to be reluctant to read in their leisure
time, the importance of recreational reading necessitates methods to
encourage teenagers to read. One format that has been discussed as a
possibility to engage teenagers in reading is the graphic novel.
The objective of this research is to investigate the inclusion of
graphic novels in library collections and whether this format
encourages teenagers to use libraries and read in their free time.
Graphic novel collections in Australian public libraries were
investigated through a survey
of Australia-wide Young Peoples' Services (YPS) librarians.
Interviews with
Western Australian public and school librarians provided further insight
into their library's graphic novel collections and the librarians' perceptions
of the graphic novel format and graphic novel use by teenagers. Teenagers'
views on public libraries, their levels of recreational reading and thoughts
on the graphic novel format were determined through focus groups.
The difficulties in finding teenagers to participate in the research was
overcome by selecting participants from local high schools, accessible
through the researcher's network of contacts.
