New Display at Coleraine Library Explores Rich Diversity of Fantasy Genre

Currently on display in Coleraine Library the free display explores the rich diversity of the fantasy genre, from Arthurian legends to manga and live action role-playing games.

Inspired by Fantasy: Realms of Imagination at the British Library, supported by Wayland Games, the display in Coleraine Library explores how fantasy is flourishing today across a range of different media – literature, TV, film, games and more – and looks back at the origins of the genre.

To celebrate the display being available to view in the library throughout the month of December, everyone is invited to come along to Coleraine Library on Monday 18 December from 2:30pm until 3:00pm for a fairy-tale themed Storytime and are encouraged to dress up in your finest fairy-tale, myth and folklore costume.

Linzie King, Libraries NI District Manager said:

“We are delighted to be hosting this exhibition, it is a fantastical collection that showcases the rich and imaginative world of the fantasy genre. We would encourage everyone to come and experience it firsthand and attend the Storytime event in your finest costumes.

“The exhibition is sure to transport you to enchanting realms and ignite your imagination so come along during normal opening hours throughout December to see for yourself.”

For centuries readers have escaped their everyday lives and journeyed into new worlds filled with magic and adventure, incredible mythical creatures, and heroes and villains that speak to our greatest dreams and fears. From ancient folk tales and fairy stories, gothic horror and weird fiction, to live action role-playing games, fantasy is a rich genre filled with magical worlds imagined by writers, artists and creators that has had an enduring, global impact.

Libraries play a special role in the canon of fantasy literature, providing portals to other realms, containing magical texts that help heroes on their quests and of course the librarians that help the characters navigate wondrous lands and the strange creatures they contain. Coleraine Library is one of over 30 libraries across the UK highlighting how local folklore and fairy tales have inspired fantasy writers, and the role of local libraries in introducing readers to the genre, as part of the Living Knowledge Network, a UK-wide partnership of national and public libraries.

Liz White, Director of Library Partnerships at the British Library, said: ‘Fantasy is a much beloved genre that is globally popular and yet draws on local legends and mythology in creating mythical worlds for readers to escape into. The displays in libraries in the Living Knowledge Network will explore these local connections with fantasy writers and creators while inspiring readers with the genre’s imaginative possibilities across literature, films, TV and gaming.’

This exhibition is free to come along and view in Coleraine Library throughout December during opening hours. No booking is required, just call in and view for yourself.

For further information, please contact the library on telephone 028 7034 2561 or email Coleraine.library@librariesni.org.uk.