ANN ARBOR, MI — If you see a large rodent on your next visit to the library, that might just be Akako G. Shins.

The Ann Arbor District Library now has its own mascot, a friendly and furry groundhog, also known as a woodchuck, marmot or, more scientifically, Marmota monax.

The mascot made a debut showing at AADL’s Game Over Gala in August and made additional appearances at two more library events this past weekend, the Ann Arbor Comic Arts Festival: Small + Indie Press and Dead Media Day.

The name Akako G. Shins comes from the Ojibwe word akakojiishiins, which means “little groundhog,” and the middle initial also stands for groundhog.

Akako works at the library, loves coming to AADL events and is always excited to meet new people, according to AADL, which partnered with artist Jason Dri

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