Manga Collection Development Resources
As someone who doesn’t know much about manga, when it comes to updating my collection, I rely on the knowledge and expertise of others. Fortunately, we are lucky to have many in the library world who are experts in this area and share their knowledge. Here are some helpful resources
Reviews and age ratings
No Flying, No Tights
The No Flying, No Tights website is awesome. As well as starred reviewed lists, school lists and core lists, they review a massive range of manga and graphic novels. You can search their manga reviews. You can also filter by age, genre and recommendations. Most of their reviews mention content and age rating, which is really helpful.
Manga Librarian
Ashley Hawkins shares all things manga on the site Manga Librarian. She has lots of great articles about selecting manga, the common manga terms you need to know and reviews. Unfortunately, I’ve never discovered how to search on her site, so when looking for a specific review I head over to her lists on Anime Planet. I find her lists extremely helpful.
Manga In Libraries
Created by Jillian Rules, Manga In Libraries is a fantastic resource. They have a book (Manga in Libraries), webinars and lists, which I find really helpful – Manga for All Ages, Manga for Teens, Manga for Older Teens and you’ll find more lists from the Manga in Libraries team here.
Manga in the Middle
Focusing on manga for middle grade, Manga in the Middle created by Julie Stivers, has a list of Must Buy Series which is really helpful.
The Graphic Library
The Graphic Library is another great site for finding manga reviews and recommendations. Run by librarian Sara Smith, you’ll find reviews and a beginner’s buying guide.
ALIA Graphic
As well as resources and links, ALIA Graphic share a monthly round up of new titles, a shortlist of recommended titles and a podcast, with both their roundup titles and conversations with creators. Love that this has an Australian feature, so you’ll hear about Australian graphic creators.
Manga Podcasts
Want to listen and learn? The School Librarians United podcast has a few manga-related episodes.
Manga in Libraries with Jillian Rudes
Got Graphic Novels? Now what with Sara Smith
Manga Librarian with Ashley Hawkins
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