SamiCon 2023: A Grand Adventure Beyond The Shelves

When Libraries Come Alive: Bringing Stories to Reality.

As September shines a spotlight on Library Card Sign-Up Month, Samuels Public Library has a unique way of celebrating it as they transform their premises into a haven for the imaginative: SamiCon 2023.

The Royal Examiner joined Erin Rooney, the Adult Services Supervisor, for a tour of the activities at Samicon 2023. And just a playful correction – we’re not talking about Samantha Carter from the TV show Stargate!

Stepping into Samuels Public Library, we found ourselves enveloped in a world where books jump off their pages, becoming tangible in the form of costumes, crafts, and interactive displays. From Stormtroopers to Star Trek, the library becomes a nexus of tales and characters from different universes.

One of the first attractions is LARPing – Live Action Role Play. Local enthusiasts, many hailing from Winchester, immerse themselves in mock battles, drawing intrigued audiences.

Another crowd magnet is the arcade by PlayFavorites and the magical allure of Kevin Owens’ Magic Show. But what’s equally enchanting are the local artisans like Main Street Geeks and authors like Ben Hatke, who breathe life into their crafts and stories.

The historic miniature gaming society offers a captivating glimpse into history. One such game, “Armor Predators,” is a meticulous recreation of World War II tank warfare. Players become commanders, strategizing moves on expansive terrains. Naval battles have their stage, too, with games like “General Quarters 3,” where one can relive the Battle of the Java Sea.

For those seeking calmer waters, the coloring tables offered an artistic retreat. But the spotlight returns to the galaxy far, far away with the 501st Legion’s Star Wars costuming display. This group not only celebrates the fandom but also champions charity initiatives, like their own Make-A-Wish endowment fund.

Yet, SamiCon is not just about looking back; it also looks to the future. The Superhero station introduces children to coding, while the 3D printing demonstration mesmerizes them with intricate designs.

Beyond the fictional cosmos, the seed lending library promotes real-world growth, courtesy of the Master Gardeners. Here, the community shares seeds, ensuring that knowledge and nature bloom hand in hand.

SamiCon 2023 is a testament to the evolving role of libraries. Samuels Public Library demonstrates that a library can be a center of creativity, imagination, and community, proving that it offers so much more than just books.