2. LIBRARY AND GAMES
Due to interest, I decided to
tweak the topic a little and
focus video and computer
games in libraries
For the record gaming in
libraries can include a
number of things including
board games, traditional
games (I am not really sure
what this means), physical
games (I guess like
dodgeball and sharks and
minnow – no clue how to
play this in a
library), summer
reading, card games, and
roleplaying games
3. LIBRARY AND GAMES
Why it works for libraries
Focus on educational value as she shows how these
―cognitive workouts‖ are proven to enhance the
development of learning and literacy skills.
Get insights into the social value of gaming—an activity
that cuts across age, socioeconomic groups, gender,
and technical know-how
Learn how other libraries, with creative planning and
little money, have incorporated gaming services for a big
return on investment.
4. LIBRARIES AND GAMES
Some facts
7 out of 10 public libraries support gaming
4 out of 10 public libraries run gaming programs
Console and computer games account for a third of
gaming programs
82% of libraries allow patrons to play games on the
computer
5. LIBRARIES AND GAMES
Libraries have a lot of
options for their size
and funding
Game consoles like
Playstation3, XBOX
360, and Wii
MMOs like Second
Life, and WoW
Computer based
games like the Sims
6. LIBRARIES AND GAMES
Bringing in games into
libraries can increase
demographics because it
crosses gender lines and
it crosses age lines
Women over the age of 40
are more likely to play
online games than other
demographics
Can increase literacy and
education rates
9. LIBRARIES AND GAMES – SOME MORE OPTIONS
Incorporate games that supplement or aid in the school curriculum
Social studies – SimCity
Music and performing arts – Just Dance
Math and logic – Portal
Different cultures - Okami
Some other games that support curriculum but might have opposition for the public are
Greek mythology – God of war
Literature – Devil May Cry
Offer prizes
Doesn’t always have to be money oriented
Hall of Fame
Teaching gaming to inexperienced or younger patrons
Interview in newsletter or other forms of public relations
Provide different levels and types so as not to alienated those
who are less experienced or are not into a certain genre of
video games