Rex Libris

Born out of the ashes of the great library of Alexandria, our 2000 year old hero Rex Libris is the gun-toting Head Librarian at Middleton Public library. Said to be an expert shot, he struggles against the forces of evil, defends the Dewey Decimal System, and battles alien warlords who refuse to pay their late fees.

The graphic novel series began in 2005, and it's rumored that there is also a movie in the works.


The series also reveals the Ordo Bibliotheca, a secret society of public librarians that have been subtly guiding human civilization. For centuries, the secret agents have been disguising themselves as mild mannered, mousy types, who spend time reshelving books and shushing noisy patrons. Efficient and ruthless, the femme fatale operatives of the Order have all been extensively combat trained (in everything from martial arts to firearms) to aid in the never ending task of defending knowledge.

Naturally, I think a "Regina" Libris would have been a better choice, but I like the premise of this comic and I really like the artwork. Drawn very simply with shades of gray, it simultaneously seems modern and classic - like libraries themselves.

(all photos can be enlarged by clicking)