LIBCON Erie Reissues Day of Geeky Glory

SATURDAY, MAY 8

Last year, the Erie Comic Con — like so many other events — disappeared into the Phantom Zone as Earthlings fought back against a certain microscopically spiky adversary that shall not be named. 

But just like in the comic books, the good guys usually find a way to return, no matter how absolute their seeming demise. And so it is with the Erie Library Comic Con, now rechristened LIBCON Erie, for its long-delayed fifth volume.

Although this year sees the previous organizers, The GeekERIE, uninvolved with the con, the event remains hosted by the Erie County Public Library, still celebrating comics as an indispensable part of pop culture and visual and literary art form. LIBCON Erie 2021 will be beaming education and entertainment into your home, spaceship, or aquatic fortress all day and absolutely free of charge on Saturday, May 8. 

Filling out the day will be a slew of virtual events embracing comic book and geek culture, including online panels, workshops, game tutorials, demonstrations, and live programs. Before it's all said and done, winners of the Art and Cosplay Contests will be announced and take up their mantles as the area's most extraordinary. Submissions for both contests must be submitted via email to libcon@eriecounty.gov by Wednesday, May 4. Contest rules may be viewed here. 

Whether you be superhuman, mutant, or perfectly human, the following featured events require registration:

• 10 - 11 a.m. — So You Want to Make a Webcomic? (Ages 13+)
• 11 a.m. - Noon — Dungeon Master Boot Camp (Ages 13+)
• Noon - 1 p.m. — Pokemon Bingo (Ages 6-12)
• 1 - 2 p.m. — Trivia Challenge (Ages 12+)
• 2 - 2:30 p.m. — Kids Crafty Half Hour (Ages 6-12)
• 2 - 3:30 p.m. — Fandom Fight Club (Ages 13-18)

Additionally, Dungeons and Dragons and Minecraft-themed take-home kits are available for pick-up leading up to LIBCON Erie, while supplies last. 

If you wouldn't know Mjolnir if it hit you in the back of your Skrull (whoever that may secretly be), don't despair — a Cosplay Q & A will answer all your burning questions. Or, alternatively, you can portray the characters answering them — submit your video to libcon@eriecounty.gov Wednesday, May 5. Be tasteful, lest you learn the difference between Mjolnir and a ban hammer.

Erie is grateful to the library and its sponsors for another heroic effort.

10 a.m. to 4 p.m. // Online event // Free // eriecounty-pa.libguides.com/LibConErie/Home