Strathmore Library Launches Monthly Cosplay Creators Guild

The Strathmore Municipal Library has initiated a new monthly program designed to foster community among cosplay enthusiasts of all ages. The program, known as the Cosplay Creators Guild, takes place on the last Tuesday of each month and invites participants to engage in creative activities related to cosplay. While it primarily targets teens and youth, adults are encouraged to join as well.

The first official meeting occurred on February 28, 2023. Laura Henderson, the library’s assistant director, expressed enthusiasm about the program’s launch. “We wanted to give it a shot and see how things were going before we did more of a hard launch,” she explained. Prior to this, the group held informal gatherings at members’ homes, but the increasing number of participants necessitated a more structured approach.

Henderson shared that the original facilitator of the gatherings approached her to explore the possibility of establishing a more official venue. The aim is to emphasize various aspects of the cosplay community, including story writing, character development, costume design, and set creation. Gathering in a public space, she noted, would allow more individuals to participate safely and comfortably.

“Meeting in a home was not necessarily conducive to growing the group,” Henderson said. “They needed more space, and with teens involved, it’s important to ensure a safe environment.” The library’s program room, which can accommodate larger groups, has become a suitable location for these gatherings.

According to Henderson, library programs are generally considered viable if they attract at least five attendees. The inaugural session of the Cosplay Creators Guild drew a promising turnout of 11 participants, indicating potential for future growth. Henderson is optimistic that as awareness increases, more community members will join, capitalizing on the library’s ample space and resources.

“What I love about it is you don’t have to come and work on a project or even learn about cosplay,” she remarked. “You can just be interested and want to connect with others who share similar passions.” While the primary demographic targets teens, the guild welcomes anyone interested in the realms of cosplay, fantasy, and science fiction.

For younger participants under the age of 12, the library requests that they be accompanied by a parent or guardian during meetings. Currently, the guild meets once a month, but Henderson anticipates expanding to bi-monthly gatherings as the group evolves.

More information about the Cosplay Creators Guild can be found through the Strathmore Municipal Library, encouraging local enthusiasts to explore their creative interests in a supportive environment.