West Virginia’s most famous cryptid is making his way back to the library! The
Clarksburg-Harrison Public Library (CHPL) is bringing back its special edition
Mothman library cards for the month of November, giving Harrison County
residents another chance to carry a little piece of West Virginia folklore in their
wallets.

The new cards arrive at an especially fitting time, coinciding with the West
Virginia Division of Motor Vehicles’ recent release of new cryptid-themed
license plates. From Mothman to other mysterious creatures said to roam the
Mountain State, West Virginia’s fascination with its unusual history continues to
capture people’s imaginations.

“Cryptids are such a draw with WV residents, as there is much exciting history
surrounding these creatures in our area. The last time we offered special edition
library cards, we ran out of them very quickly. We want to give the community
an opportunity to get their hands on one of these again,” said Shannon Beam,
Director of the Clarksburg-Harrison Public Library.

The Mothman connection goes beyond the new library card design.
Waldomore, home to a unique collection of local history materials, houses the
Gray Barker Collection, which includes files and research related to Mothman
and other cryptids. Gray Barker was a West Virginia writer and researcher
known for his interest in UFOs, unexplained phenomena, and mysterious
creatures.

Some of the Gray Barker Collection has been digitized and is available to
explore online at https://tinyurl.com/chplgraybarker. Those interested in seeing
the collection in person can also visit Waldomore.

The new Mothman card features an original illustration by CHPL Outreach
Manager Emily Mottesheard, who enjoyed bringing the beloved West Virginia
legend to life.

“I had a lot of fun with this illustration project. It’s a joy to see it help promote
the library,” said Mottesheard.

There’s also a little hidden humor in the artwork. Mothman has settled down
with a book, but his moth instincts get the better of him when he spots a
nearby lamp. Even a good book can’t always compete with a bright light!
Want your own Mothman library card?

New patrons can receive a Mothman library card for free when signing up for a
library card. Current cardholders who would like to exchange their existing card
for the special edition design can do so for free throughout November.
Beginning December 1, existing patrons will be charged a $3 fee to exchange
their card for the Mothman design. New patrons will continue to receive their
first Mothman card for free.

Stop by the Clarksburg-Harrison Public Library or Salem Library branch during
November to get yours while supplies last!