Library cats are all the rage, at least according to Mental Floss, Flavorwire, and of course, the famous Dewey. But some libraries are going a step further with official library mascots to showcase the library during programs, outreach events, and around the community. Here are a few of our favorites:
- Colorado’s Poudre River Library District has a new mascot, Piercival—better known as Percy—the owl
- Baxter, the Maine Coon Cat Library Mascot, Maine
- Ernie the cat at Bealeton Library, Virginia
- Curious the Chameleon at Calgary Public Library, Canada
- Stacks the cat at Litchfield Public Library District, Illinois
- Ralph and Mudge the gerbils at Oak Park Public Library, Illinois
- Roary the lion at Princeton Public Library, New Jersey
- Dewey the Dragon at Burbank Public Library, California
- Buddy the Bookworm at North Las Vegas Public Library, Nevada
- Ohio the Orangutan at Mansfield/Richland County Public Library, Ohio
There’s also a compilation of Unshelved comic strips, Library Mascot Cage Match, in case you’re wondering how your favorite mascot would fare in a fight.
Does your library have a mascot? How does your mascot help with programs and outreach? Tell us about it on Twitter!
Note: This post is part of our “Beyond Books” series. From time to time, we’ll be sharing examples of unique lending programs, events, and outreach that libraries are offering.