Comic Geek Out
Saturday, July 26, 12:00 – 5:00 pm
Main Library – 111 Library St NE
Discover your inner hero at the library’s annual comic event. Celebrate the comic books you love and geek out about your favorite fandom. Join us for hands-on activities, snacks, free books, a comic & craft station, and other fun events designed for all ages.
Attendees can take home a free 2025 Comic Geek Out poster designed by Cody Coppernoll and enjoy free snacks and refreshments while supplies last.
Transportation & Parking
Free parking is available in the library’s main lot.
Overflow parking is also available in the GRCC parking ramp (enter on Fountain St), request a validation pass at the front desk upon entry while supplies last.
Bike racks are located at the front of the library.
Need public transit? Find a bus route.
Special Guest
Meet and Greet with Veronica Taylor
2:00 – 3:00 pm, Auditorium
Join a Q&A session with voice actress Veronica Taylor!
Veronica Taylor is an American voice actress known for bringing iconic characters to life in English-dubbed anime. She is best recognized for voicing Ash Ketchum, Delia, and May in the English version of Pokémon (1998-2006). Discover what it’s like to work as a voice actor, hear about Veronica’s favorite roles, and even get an autograph!
Schedule
Podcasting 101
12:00 – 1:00 pm, Level 3
Join creator Jonathan Pataky to learn how to develop a podcast around your favorite fandoms. Discover which equipment to use and tips for promoting your podcast.
Swords in Media: Myth vs. Reality
1:00 – 2:00 pm, Auditorium
Join the Swordsmanship Museum & Academy for an engaging presentation as they debunk common swordsmanship myths seen in anime, manga, video games, movies, and more.
Celebrate 40 Years of Dragon Ball
3:00 – 4:00 pm, Auditorium
Join Grand Rapids author and Dragon Ball scholar Derek Padula as he explores the cultural history and influence of Dragon Ball, one of the most iconic anime franchises, created by Akira Toriyama.
Derek Padula is the author of The Dao of Dragon Ball website and book series, where he delves into the deep history, philosophy, and cultural roots of the anime. He trained in martial arts and East Asian studies and is an expert on Dragon Ball's life-changing impact.
Cosplay Showcase
4:00 – 5:00 pm, Auditorium
Showcase your amazing cosplay at Comic Geek Out!
Register at the welcome table for your age group when you arrive, then showcase your outfit on stage at the scheduled time to take home a prize!
Cosplay Guidelines
- All costumes should provide enough coverage to be worn in public and be appropriate for a family-friendly event.
- No flash, fire, explosives, fireworks, smoke (including incense), fog (including dry ice), or incendiary devices, such as caps or smokers, will be allowed.
- No chemicals, powders, thrown glitter, or confetti will be allowed.
- If weapons are part of your costume, they should comply with the following:
- No sharp swords or knives or actual working weapons are allowed. Wood, rattan, bamboo, plastic, cardboard, foam, or rubber weapons are acceptable.
- Fake firearms are not allowed, even if they follow compliance with authorities and have a fluorescent orange plug in the muzzle.
- Inspection of all weapons will be required prior to the event, regardless of material. Contestants are responsible for their own weapons; this includes carrying them throughout the event.
- No profanity will be allowed during the event. This includes messages on signs or clothes.
Ongoing
Comic Crafts & Trivia
12:00 – 5:00 pm, Level 3
Join GRPL librarians and special guests for a fun comic and craft-making session! Enjoy trivia and hands-on art activities. Free materials available while supplies last.
Fandom Facepainting with iLove Your Face
12:00 – 5:00 pm, Level 3
Get creative with fandom-inspired face painting by iLove Your Face!
Show off your favorite characters or a custom design.
Asian Museum of Warriors
12:00 – 5:00 pm, Reading Room
Discover the traveling Asian Museum of Warriors from the Swordsmanship Museum & Academy. Explore the history of Asian swords by looking at displays with fascinating relics from the past.
Tabletop Extravaganza
12:00 – 5:00 pm, Level 3
Explore and play the library’s collection of tabletop games. Games will be available for checkout and for use during the event. Join friends, family, and library staff for some fun, self-guided gameplay!
Artists Alley
12:00 – 5:00 pm, Reading Room
Meet talented local artists and browse their exceptional art. Artwork will be available for sale during the event.
Professional Cosplayers Meet & Greet
12:00 – 5:00 pm, Level 3
Meet your favorite characters from multiple franchises and pose for a photo with them at our photo booth.
Special Thanks
Special thanks to the Grand Rapids Public Library Foundation.
