Collection and storage of manga books and related materials
The Museum will collect manga materials systematically and establish a database. Currently archived print publications in the collection consist of approximately 300,000 items; from caricature woodblock prints of the Edo period, Meiji period magazines, and post-war rental books, to modern popular series and publications from abroad. In addition, with the recent attention on the value of original artwork (manga manuscripts), they have also formed part of the collection. Work to preserve original artworks through high precision digital archives – and from these the creation of elaborate ‘Genga'(Dash)’ reproductions, have also been added to the collection.
Research and studies on the history and culture of manga
The Museum will conduct research and studies on manga culture using large volumes of manga books and other related materials housed in the museum. The Museum will also be actively involved in collaborative research projects with academic research institutions in Japan and abroad, and with regional facilities and other manga-related facilities, and will establish an information network to enable collaborative facilities to share data and materials. Moreover, in collaboration with writers, editors, publishers and other staff members involved in manga production, the Museum will work to promote practical application of its research results.
Operation of the museum/library
The museum continues to hold permanent and temporary exhibitions based on the collection, preservation, and research of materials to promote the awareness of manga culture domestically and abroad. Additionally, approximately 50,000 volumes of manga from the collection are readily available on open shelves for visitors to read; while the museum also offers reference facilities to support research through a dedicated room in which visitors can access approximately 250,000 items from the closed-stack collection.
Training to produce qualified researchers/ specialists
The Museum aims to serve as a base for training and fostering researchers and specialists who will play leading roles in promoting manga culture in the future. The Museum will support the research activities of up-and-coming researchers and students by encouraging them to participate in research projects, providing them with opportunities to present research results, making materials available for viewing and research access, and establishing an information network. Through these activities, the Museum will meet the needs of frontline teachers and students in the educational setting.
Creation of new industry
Manga, a new form of art and culture, offers great potential for industrial development. The Museum will collect examples of social uses of manga in Japan and abroad and examine its effects and problems, so as to research and develop a model for using manga as a communication tool and for business purposes. Moreover, the Museum will seek new functions and roles through various activities such as making research results available to the public, and holding special themed exhibitions.
Local community center
The museum is housed in the converted building of the former Tatsuike Elementary School, which was beautifully preserved by local residents even after the school was closed. Supported by a deep understanding and the active cooperation of local residents, the museum also functions as a community center, and is expected to actively contribute to regional development, acting as a model for manga related cultural facilities that are being opened all over the country.
