UPCOMING ANIME NIGHTS: | Kenichi in November I MoonPhase in December |

You might think that anime is just cartoons for small children, but it's actually a fascinating and complex form of storytelling that originated in Japan. Seen as an alternative to the live-action market, anime quickly became the go-to format for showing epic stories that were so big in concept that only a medium such as animation would allow for it. Some anime is exaggerated and cartoonish while some is thoughtful and realistic (certain series and storylines are often geared towards small children while others are very obviously adult-themed). Many recognizable anime series such as Sailor Moon, Pokémon, and Naruto are shows that viewers of all ages can enjoy, but many anime series are not for kids. Manga, which consists of serialized Japanese comics and print cartoons, is the book equivalent of anime. Anime seems to get increasingly popular with each passing year as more and more series are coming out on DVD in both Japan and in the United States. With many considering anime an art form, it might be time to come to Anime @ Night! and see what all the fuss is about.

Anime @ Night! is a part of the NYPL at Nite series of events. Since the Mid-Manhattan Library remains open until 11:00 PM during the week on Monday through Thursday, the aim of NYPL at Nite is to offer dynamic and engaging adult programming for patrons who use the library in the evening. Ongoing programs include Games @ Night (both board games and playing Nintendo Wii), Language Conversation (Spanish, Chinese, and an upcoming Russian class), and additional movie nights. Past film series have included the American Film Treasures and a tribute to Fritz Lang. Check www.nypl.org under "Classes, Programs & Exhibitions" for a full listing listing of events, and follow NYPL at Nite on Twitter and “Like” it on Facebook.