Leeds Libraries to Distribute Free Comics

Libraries throughout Leeds are distributing hundreds of complimentary comics and graphic novels, an initiative designed to encourage young readers. Approximately 1,000 titles, appropriate for all age groups, will be accessible for collection at 10 city libraries starting Friday, coinciding with the Thought Bubble Comic Art Festival. This program, currently in its 15th year, has facilitated the distribution of over 10,000 free comics and graphic novels since its inception in 2009. Thought Bubble, recognized as the United Kingdom’s largest comic art convention and festival, is scheduled to conclude on Sunday at the Harrogate Convention Centre. Book Crossing 2024, an event backed by distributor Diamond Comics, will operate from 10:00 GMT until all available titles have been claimed. Lisa Wood, a comic artist and illustrator who established Thought Bubble in 2007, described comic books as an art form that “people absorb themselves in that they love”. Ms Wood, known by her pen name Tula Lotay, stated, “Some of the best literary works out there are comic books, a lot of people love them.” The writer, based in Ilkley, shared that she conquered dyslexia and acquired reading skills through comic books, with these personal experiences motivating her to launch the Book Crossing initiative. She remarked, “Comics are so much more than superheroes – there’s just so much going on in these amazing books.” “I think that’s why the movie industry looks to them so often,” she added. The artist relinquished her role in managing Thought Bubble, an event that draws participants and presenters globally, in 2022 to dedicate more time to her family and her illustration work. She concluded by stating: “Comic books can be expensive and books can be expensive, we work with incredible partners who often have surplus stock and want to invest in the events.” She further emphasized, “They are available for anyone to read.”