Over the weekend, Tempe Public Library transformed into a haven for geeks at the annual Tempe FanCon event, known for celebrating the best of pop culture, gaming, and literary fandoms. This year's gathering held on Saturday, marked a significant milestone for the community-driven extravaganza with the commemoration of its 10th anniversary. According to ABC15, attendees were treated to an array of attractions, including a scavenger hunt, vendors, food trucks, and a costume contest, all aimed at drawing a varied audience from die-hard fans to families looking for a fun day out.
Melissa Quillard, the library spokesperson, emphasized the connection between the library's resources and the festivities by stating, a synergy exists between the library and the communal nerdy passions celebrated at FanCon. "Comic books especially tap into some key literacy components," Quillard told Phoenix New Times. From intricate illustrations to narrative bubbles, comic books require readers to parse visual and textual elements in tandem, lending themselves to enhanced comprehension and literacy skills.
With over 83 vendors setting up shop this year, visitors had a myriad to explore, from captivating illustrations to potential new reads. Programming librarian, Jill Brenner, announced in an interview, "We are going to be having a scavenger hunt this year," and added that the Fun Factory zone would offer kids a variety of exciting activities such as an obstacle course and possibly some face painting. Brenner shared with ABC15 the inclusive ethos of the event, inviting everyone to partake in the costume contest regardless of their level of fandom or costume complexity.
The purpose behind Tempe FanCon's decade of festivities goes beyond mere entertainment. It’s rooted in a mission to drive literacy and a love for reading. Incorporating images with text, graphic novels become a gateway for reluctant readers to delve into the world of literature. "And it's basically all about literacy," Brenner highlighted the event's foundational goal to ABC15, elaborating on the engaging combination of artwork and narrative as a way to entice people of all ages into reading.
For those looking to engage with local talent, the event boasted an impressive lineup of creators such as Matthew O. Duncan and Mindy Tarquini, along with a variety of music performances like that of the geek rapper Mega Ran, as reported by Phoenix New Times. The convergence of comics, anime, and literary worlds showcased at Tempe FanCon serves to remind us that libraries can be epicenters of imagination and discovery for communities, turning the page for another decade of fan-driven wonder.
