Austin Public Library (APL) is diving into comic books and other nerd culture for a free new “con-like experience” launching this summer, according to a press release. CABAMcon 2026, which stands for Comics, Anime, Books, Art, and Movies, will be held at the Central Library for most ages Saturday, September 12.<\/p>\n
Cosplay (dressing up like a fictional character) is encouraged, and cosplayers are invited to bring gear to swap. The event is geared toward anyone six years old and older, so attire should be family-friendly.<\/p>\n
Since this is a library event, we’ll put books front and center: local comic and book sellers will be on hand to sell their works, and the APL gift shop will also be involved, though the event doesn’t say if anything special will be on offer. Fans will encouraged to check out APL’s existing collection of comics, graphic novels, and other media, so there will be plenty to pore over for free.<\/p>\n
Like many of APL’s other community events, CABAMcon will set up a “craft, connect and challenge area” for fans to mingle. Other library-led activities for the day include photo ops, a quick draw photo booth, and anime dubbing with APL’s Innovation Lab (where anyone can use creative programs like digital audio workstations, photo editing tools, and 3D printing machines).<\/p>\n
There will also be two attractions led by partner organizations: trivia with Central Texas live event group GetItGames! and Lego builds by Austin Lego User Group, whose members construct elaborate works and socialize around the hobby.<\/p>\n