Explore Illinois comic book history in Mount Carroll

Nida TazeenFreeport Journal- Standard
Sept. 10, 2026, 3:40 a.m. CT

A presentation exploring the connections between comic book history and Illinois will be held at 1 p.m. Sept. 12 at the Mount Carroll District Library in Mount Carroll.

The free event, sponsored by the Friends of the Mount Carroll District Library, NFP, will feature Illinois Humanities Road Scholar Stephen Harrick’s program, “Comic Book Culture and Illinois, A Living History,” according to a community announcement.

The presentation will take place at the library, 208 N. Main St., and light refreshments will be available for attendees.

Illinois has played a notable role in the development of comic strips and comic books, with creators, publishers and significant moments in comics history tied to the state, according to the announcement. Characters linked to the Chicago area include Dick Tracy, Blondie and Brenda Starr, while downstate Illinois connections include Popeye, Black Panther and The Phantom.

Program explores comics and Illinois history

Harrick is a writer, historian, scholar, educator and theater artist whose work on comics culture has appeared in Comic Beat, Straight Up Magazine and The Arts STL.

The program will examine links between comic books and topics including Illinois politics, labor, law enforcement, education, architecture and identity, according to the announcement.

Attendees will receive a free comic book while supplies last.

About the presenter

Harrick has delivered presentations on comics, literature, theater and performance at libraries, conventions and academic conferences in the United States and abroad. His comics have been published by GrayHaven Comics and Ink & Drink Comics.

Illinois Humanities receives support from the Illinois General Assembly through the Illinois Arts Council Agency, along with contributions from individuals, foundations and corporations.

For more information, contact the Mount Carroll District Library at 815-244-1751.

This story was produced by reporter Nida Tazeen,NTazeen@usatodayco.com, with the assistance of Artificial Intelligence (AI). Journalists were involved in every step of the review, editing and publishing process. Learn more atcm.usatoday.com/ethical-conduct.