Intro to Manga

November 25, 2024

Welcome to the captivating world of Japanese graphic novels, also known as manga. At Miami Public Library, we're here to guide you through the basics you need to know before diving into these illustrated stories that have captured the hearts of millions worldwide.

What is Manga?

Manga refers to a style of graphic novels and comics originating from Japan. These stories are often serialized in magazines before being compiled into volumes known as "tankobon." Manga spans a wide array of genres, from action and adventure to romance, mystery, fantasy, and more. The art style is typically characterized by expressive characters, detailed backgrounds, and dynamic panel layouts.

Manga vs Anime?

While both manga and anime originate from Japan, the main difference lies in their format. Manga is the printed or digital form of storytelling through graphic novels, whereas anime refers to the animated adaptations of these stories. Often, popular manga series are adapted into anime, allowing fans to experience their favorite stories in a new medium with sound, color, and motion.

Where to Start

The world of manga offers something for everyone, and it can be overwhelming to know where to begin. Here are the primary demographics of manga to help you find the right fit:

• Kodomomuke: Designed for young children, kodomomuke manga often includes educational themes and simple storytelling. Examples include Milk & Mocha, Stitch! & Sweet Home.

• Shojo: Geared towards tween and teen girls, shojo manga often focuses on romance, personal growth, and relationships. Some titles include: 15 Minutes Before We Really Date, New Girl, and Doors of Chaos.

• Shonen: Targeted at tween and teen boys, shonen manga often features action-packed stories with themes of friendship and adventure. Popular examples include Delicious Dungeon, Avatar the Last Airbender, All Out.

• Josei: Aimed at adult women (18+), josei manga typically features realistic romance, drama, and slice-of-life stories. Series such as Peach Heaven, No Vampire, No Happy Ending, and Gakuen Prince are popular within this category.

• Seinen: Intended for adult men (18+), seinen manga often explores more complex themes and intricate plots. Examples include Berserk, The Witcher, and Dragons Rioting.

More Info

There are no rules against adults reading shojo series or teens enjoying seinen series; it's all about personal taste.  It's important to recognize the diversity in manga, as misconceptions can lead to inappropriate content being shared with young readers. Manga encompasses many narratives, from serious dramas to lighthearted comedies, often featuring exaggerated situations and art styles.

A Word of Caution

When diving into the world of manga, it's important to be aware of fan service. This term refers to content designed primarily to please or titillate fans, often without advancing the plot or developing characters. Such content can include a series' main character depicted in revealing outfits or suggestive situations. Fan service can be found in nearly all genres of manga, ranging from harmless entertainment to content that may be unsettling.

A significant portion of manga, particularly those aimed at male audiences, often features oversexualized female characters. It is not uncommon for female characters in these stories to be depicted in revealing clothing, to lose their clothing unexpectedly, or to be placed in compromising situations by male characters. Although sexual themes can be portrayed humorously in some manga, it is crucial to approach such content with sensitivity and caution. Therefore, we advise parents and guardians to review manga before sharing them with children, especially impressionable young boys. Fortunately, there are many well-crafted series appropriate for all ages, and our Manga for Middle-Schoolers guide lists several titles suitable for younger readers.

Our goal is not to restrict what readers choose but to equip and inform our patrons so they can make thoughtful choices. We provide this cautionary note to parents, educators, and librarians to ensure they do not unintentionally offer unsuitable material. For this reason, our ComicsPlus collection filters content by registered library card users' age, helping to guide selections that are appropriate for different age groups.

Final Thoughts:

This article offers a brief introduction to the vast world of manga, providing a basic understanding for readers. However, not all manga will fit the principles mentioned, and that's part of the fun in exploring different genres and stories.

If you're unsure about what to read, consider consulting your local librarian or searching online for recommendations. At MPL, we have a collection of manga for you to enjoy, but due to limited shelf space, we have added access to ComicsPlus online, which features thousands of titles without any wait time. Whether you're interested in a heartfelt romance or an exciting adventure, our library team is here to help you find your next favorite series.

Happy reading!

Grow with Google

September 23, 2024

Oklahoma Department of Libraries Partners with OMES and Google to Offer Google Career Certificates at No Cost Through Public Libraries

Oklahoma City, OK — The Oklahoma Department of Libraries (ODL), in collaboration with the Office of Management and Enterprise Services (OMES) and Google, is proud to announce a new initiative providing access to Google Career Certificates and the Google AI Essentials Course to every Oklahoman at no cost.

So far, thousands of Oklahomans have taken the training from their homes or offices. By offering this program at local libraries, the collective team is removing barriers, such as internet access.

Librarians are available to help support patrons in their learning journey. This partnership underscores the vital role of libraries as community hubs, crucial in workforce development and lifelong learning.

The Google Career Certificates program equips people with job-ready skills in the fields of cybersecurity, data analytics, digital marketing and e-commerce, IT Support, project management, and user experience (UX) design. The program includes an employer consortium of over 150 companies – including Google – that consider graduates for roles in the certificate fields. Since 2022, 85% of Google Career Certificate graduates in Oklahoma report that they've secured gainful employment through the initiative.

“Our state is positioned to be a leader in implementing AI technology, and this partnership with Google furthers that momentum by educating thousands of Oklahomans in foundational skills for tomorrow’s economy,” Oklahoma Gov. J. Kevin Stitt said. “For years, Google has partnered with organizations throughout Oklahoma to help residents expand their career opportunities through digital skills training. As more companies move to Oklahoma, we’ll be ready to meet them with a skilled workforce.”

Quotes from members of the Lawton Delegation

“Launching this in the Lawton Public Library first shows our commitment to rural Oklahoma and surrounding towns,” said Sen. Chris Kidd (R) District 31.

"This partnership represents a giant step in modernizing our community and investing in the people of southwest Oklahoma,” said Rep. Trey Caldwell (R) District 63.

“This is an example of how government can serve its people in a meaningful way and partner with private companies to accomplish more together,” said Rep. Rande Worthen (R) District 64.

“Continued education is crucial for the people of our state, and libraries play a major role in providing awareness and access to services,” said Rep. Toni Hasenbeck (R) District 65.

“As someone who has worked in municipal government and witnessed firsthand the evolving demands of the modern economy, I know how crucial it is to provide our citizens with the tools to succeed,” said Rep. Daniel Pae (R) District 26.

Central to this initiative is the Google AI Essentials course. The online course is product agnostic, does not require a degree or experience, and will teach workers foundational AI skills, AI best practices and how to use AI responsibly. In under 10 hours, people will get practical, hands-on experience using AI to help with work tasks through videos, readings, and interactive exercises. The skills learned can be applied to a variety of roles across industries. After completing the course, people will earn a certificate from Google to share with their network.

“OMES is thrilled to partner with Google and the Oklahoma Department of Libraries on what is sure to be a transformative experience for Oklahomans,”said Joe McIntosh, state chief information officer. “It’s our hope that by making these resources and trainings available at home and through public libraries, we can help equip every Oklahoman with the skills needed to succeed in a technology-driven world.”

Late last year, Gov. Kevin Stitt established a task force to explore the potential of leveraging AI to enhance the state's economy. The Governor’s Task Force on Emerging Technologies has since published a report outlining strategies and recommendations for implementing AI initiatives across state agencies.

“When the governor’s task force shared their vision last year for an Oklahoma powered by AI, we knew that libraries would be integral in bringing responsible, safe and secure AI use to Oklahomans,” said Natalie Currie, director of the Oklahoma Department of Libraries. “The Google AI Essentials course – and the Grow with Google initiative as a whole – is the perfect opportunity to highlight the vital role libraries play in strengthening the workforce pipeline.”

In addition to digital skills programs through Google, Oklahomans also have access to Brainfuse, an invaluable online platform supporting students and job seekers. Brainfuse is accessible to anyone with a public library card in Oklahoma. The platform features three key components: HelpNow, homework help and tutoring for students of all ages; JobNow, live coaching for job seekers that includes resume assistance, cover letter guidance and interview preparation; and VetNow, a support resource for veterans and their families in understanding and applying for benefits.

Libraries are no longer just places to borrow books – they are community institutions dedicated to fostering lifelong learning and workforce development. By offering access to innovative programs like Google and Brainfuse, libraries are empowering individuals with the skills and resources needed to thrive in today’s economy. This initiative underscores the critical role libraries play in supporting community growth, providing valuable educational opportunities, and supplying all Oklahomans with the tools they need to succeed.

The Grow with Google initiative will officially launch with an event at the Lawton Public Library on Sept. 27 at 10 a.m. The event will feature speakers who will discuss the goals of the partnership and highlight its impact on workforce development in the community. Members of the public, media, and local and state government officials are invited to attend as Oklahoma embarks on this new chapter in digital skills training and career advancement.

To learn more about the Grow with Google Career Certificate Program and AI Essentials, visit oklahoma.gov/libraries/grow-google.

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About the Oklahoma Department of Libraries
The Oklahoma Department of Libraries is the official State Library of
Oklahoma. It serves the information and records management needs of state government, assists with public library development, coordinates library and information technology projects for the state, and serves the general public through its specialized collections. oklahoma.gov/libraries

About the Office of Management and Enterprise Services
The Office of Management and Enterprise Services provides essential services to state agencies and local communities, enhancing efficiency and effectiveness in government operations. This program is offered through the OMES Information Services division, which provides technology services, cybersecurity, and technology planning and investment to state employees.

About Grow with Google
Grow with Google was started in 2017 to help Americans grow their skills, careers and businesses. It provides training, tools and expertise to help small business owners, veterans and military families, jobseekers, students, educators, startups, and developers. Since Grow with Google’s inception, it has helped more than 11 million Americans develop new skills. Grow with Google has a network of more than 9,500 partner organizations like libraries, schools, small business development centers, chambers of commerce and nonprofits to help people coast to coast.