Manga Library Z, a digital haven for rare and out-of-print manga, is embarking on a crowdfunding journey to resurrect its services. After facing challenges with payment processing, the platform aims to raise 3 million yen (approximately US$20,000) to relaunch and continue providing access to a treasure trove of manga history.
The Shutdown and the Dream of Revival
In late November 2024, Manga Library Z, known as “Manga Toshokan Z” in Japanese, announced its closure due to the termination of payment services by credit card companies. This decision stemmed from concerns regarding some of the platform’s content. The shutdown marked the end of a 14-year run for the site, which had been dedicated to preserving and distributing rare manga, often those no longer available in print.
However, the team behind Manga Library Z, driven by a passion for manga preservation and accessibility, is not ready to give up. They have been exploring various avenues to revive the service, including transitioning to a non-profit organization or launching a crowdfunding campaign.
Crowdfunding to the Rescue
On Wednesday, February 5, 2025, Manga Library Z officially launched its crowdfunding campaign on the Motion Gallery website. The goal is to raise 3 million yen (about US$20,000) to cover the costs of re-establishing the digital service.
The Mission: Preserving Manga Heritage
Manga Library Z’s mission is to make rare and out-of-print manga accessible to a wider audience. The platform operates on an advertising revenue-based model, providing free access to manga while returning revenue to the original creators. This approach not only preserves manga heritage but also supports the artists who created these works.
The service was initially launched as J-Comi’s “Zeppan Manga Toshokan” in 2011 by Ken Akamatsu, the manga creator behind popular series such as Love Hina and Negima!. Akamatsu’s vision was to combat piracy by providing a legitimate and accessible platform for reading rare manga.
From J-Comi to Manga Library Z
In 2015, Akamatsu partnered with Yahoo! Japan subsidiary GyaO! to form a subsidiary company called J Comic Terrace, which took over management of the service. At this time, the service was rebranded as Manga Library Z. While Akamatsu later retired from management, the platform continued to operate under its mission of preserving and distributing rare manga.
Content Accessibility and Preservation
Manga Library Z has been a valuable resource for manga enthusiasts, offering access to titles that are difficult or impossible to find elsewhere. Many of these manga are only available digitally on the platform, making it a crucial source for manga preservation.
The Obstacles Faced
The primary reason for Manga Library Z’s initial shutdown was the termination of payment services by credit card companies. This decision was reportedly due to concerns about certain content on the platform.
Content Concerns and Creative Freedom
Ken Akamatsu has been a vocal advocate for creative freedom and has expressed concern that unchecked restrictions by credit card companies could negatively impact the entire manga industry. He argues that imposing global standards on Japanese content could diminish its unique appeal and demand.
Navigating Content Restrictions
Credit card companies, as private businesses, have the legal right to refuse specific materials. Manga Library Z has faced challenges in navigating these restrictions while maintaining its commitment to providing access to a diverse range of manga, including titles that may be considered controversial.
The Future of Manga Library Z
The crowdfunding campaign represents a critical step in Manga Library Z’s efforts to revive its service. The funds raised will be used to address the challenges it faced and to rebuild its operations in a sustainable manner.
Potential Relaunch Strategies
The Manga Library Z team is exploring various strategies for a successful relaunch, including:
- Transitioning to a non-profit organization: This would allow the platform to operate without the pressure of generating profit, focusing instead on its mission of manga preservation.
- Implementing stricter content moderation policies: This could help to address the concerns of credit card companies and ensure the long-term viability of the platform.
- Diversifying revenue streams: Exploring alternative payment methods and revenue models could reduce the platform’s reliance on credit card companies.
A Call to Action for Manga Fans
The crowdfunding campaign presents an opportunity for manga fans to support the preservation of manga history and ensure continued access to rare and out-of-print titles. By contributing to the campaign, fans can help Manga Library Z overcome its challenges and continue its mission of making manga accessible to all.
Campaign Progress
As of February 5, 2025, the crowdfunding campaign had already raised 1,279,055 yen (about US$8,300). The campaign will continue until April 1, 2025, giving manga fans ample time to contribute and help Manga Library Z reach its goal.
Ken Akamatsu’s Vision and Legacy
Ken Akamatsu’s involvement in Manga Library Z highlights his commitment to the manga industry and his desire to protect the rights of creators. His vision for the platform was to create a legitimate and accessible alternative to piracy, ensuring that artists are compensated for their work.
Akamatsu’s Political Advocacy
In addition to his work as a manga creator and entrepreneur, Akamatsu has also become involved in politics. This reflects his deep concern for the future of the manga industry and his desire to advocate for policies that support creative freedom and protect the rights of artists.
Love Hina and the Fight Against Piracy
Akamatsu’s decision to post all 14 volumes of his Love Hina manga for free on J-Comi was a bold experiment to demonstrate the viability of an advertising-based revenue model. This initiative helped to attract the attention of publishers and paved the way for collaborations with major companies like Shueisha and Kodansha.
The Broader Impact on Manga Preservation
Manga Library Z’s efforts to preserve and distribute rare manga have had a significant impact on the manga industry. By providing access to titles that are otherwise difficult to find, the platform has helped to ensure that these works are not forgotten.
Preserving Cultural Heritage
Manga is an important part of Japanese cultural heritage, and Manga Library Z plays a vital role in preserving this heritage for future generations. By digitizing and distributing rare manga, the platform ensures that these works remain accessible and can be enjoyed by fans around the world.
Supporting Manga Artists
In addition to preserving manga history, Manga Library Z also supports manga artists by providing them with a share of the advertising revenue generated by the platform. This helps to ensure that artists are compensated for their work and can continue to create new and innovative manga.
Conclusion: A Second Chance for Manga Preservation
Manga Library Z’s crowdfunding campaign represents a second chance for the platform to continue its mission of preserving and distributing rare manga. With the support of manga fans around the world, Manga Library Z can overcome its challenges and continue to provide access to a treasure trove of manga history.
