CRANBERRY TWP — The Cranberry Township Public Library is hosting an event to expose children to the science behind their favorite comic book characters.

Called Comic-tanium, the exhibit already on display contains movie props like Captain America’s shield, Iron Man’s suit and Thor’s hammer, which is signed by the actor who played him in the movies.

Leslie Pallotta, the library director, said the exhibit will run through July 11.

Pallotta said, “It’s an educational exhibit that connects the real world of material science with the fictional world of comic book superheroes.”

The library has partnered with the Minerals, Metals and Materials Society to host the exhibit. The idea is to inspire children to pursue careers in science and engineering.

Even if Comic-tanium doesn’t get children to pursue those careers, Pallotta said it can be a tool to open up the minds of children.

“Who doesn’t like to imagine, as a kid, having superpowers?” she said. “The imagination can be a powerful thing.”

The library’s summer hours are Monday through Thursday from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.; Friday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.