To bring together fans of popular culture, the school will be hosting the first T-View Con on Feb.16, from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m, in the library.

“Just like some kids are really into athletics, or really into theater, some people are that into anime and the manga,” Librarian Jennifer Rike said. “They love the stories, they love the graphics; that’s their world.”

The idea for the convention came about when senior Jeremiah Maye shared his work in progress with Rike.

“I showed her my novel,” Maye said. “It’s a futuristic interpretation about the Book of Revelations. I have been working on it for about four years and hope to publish.”

After reading Maye’s story, Rike said she realized that comics have a special connection with students.

“Everybody has something (in comics) that calls to them,” Rike said. “Whether it’s the visuals or the stories, (the readers) are immersed in it. Just like how some people spend every waking moment watching and or playing football, it’s no different,”

Tickets are $1 for students and admission is free for adults. Concessions will be available for purchase. There will also be numerous displays and activities like cosplay and video games.

“Come explore,” Rike said. “Come and look at the art. We have some amazing artists on campus. We will also have a Nintendo Switch and Mario Kart.”

In the literary world, some say that comics underrated and viewed as inferior.

“The library is for everybody and that is one of the reasons for me to support this,” Rike said. “My job is not to just put historical fiction on these shelves but to support the literary interests of all of our students.”

Rike said she hopes the T-View Con will be the first Mansfield Comic Con that is affordable and open to participation from students.

“For our students to actually attend a Comic Con is very expensive and so how can we honor their interests and make it more accessible,” Rike said. “Through school sports, you may not be able to afford a Cowboy’s game but you can go to a school game. Well, why can’t we have that same option for something our students are interested in?”