Kia ora koutou,
We are closing down ComicsNZ,
as of 13th December. Here are some FAQs, please email makerspace@aucklandcouncil.govt.nz if you have any
others.
1.
Why is ComicsNZ being shut down?
ComicsNZ was started to meet a perceived need…an online space for
NZ comics creators. While many people have their work online, and some in
zines, it seemed logical to have the library as a place to collect and promote
them in one place.
However, this initiative is not meeting a need. There were two
primary measures: the ability of the site to get interest in the comics making
community (measured by an increase in submissions), and the ability of the site
to spark the interest and imagination of Auckland Libraries staff (measured by
staff willingness to be involved). Neither has been successful.
2.
What happens to the content on ComicsNZ?
It stays. While the site will not accept any new content, existing
content will be kept, and will remain searchable. All feeds will be
disconnected, though.
3.
What have the highlights been?
·
Getting
Debra Boyask’s work online
·
Playing a part in Michael Sanders get published through Wheelers
·
Running
comics making workshops with Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei
·
Collaborating
with Chromacon 2015
·
Becoming
friends with Faction
4.
What if I wanted to
re-open ComicsNZ or have an idea around how it could work?
Please get in touch!
Email librariessocialmedia@aucklandcouncil.govt.nz
Email librariessocialmedia@aucklandcouncil.govt.nz
5.
What have we learnt from this experience with
ComicsNZ?
·
That is
important to fail. A complete absence of failure means we have not stretched
ourselves enough.
·
That an
idea in itself may be good…but be in the wrong time and place.
·
That a
system needs to be built with measures right from the start, rather than as an
afterthought.
For those of you that have been supportive and
encouraging…thank you!
-Baruk