LibraryAware Get Gamers Reading

Level up with gaming and video game RA

International Games Week is coming on November 4 - 11. This annual event encourages libraries to see all types of games as just another away to connect with their community and to celebrate "the educational, recreational, and social value" of games. Best of all, each year, those that register normally receive free games while supplies last. This year, you can also grab free print & play games (perhaps a great way to start a gaming library patrons can use while in the building).

If you're looking for some easy ways to bring gaming into your branch this November, this issue is for you. Can't fit it in at this time? Don't worry -- even if you can't celebrate gaming during the official week, try these ideas any time of year.

Yours in reading (and gaming),

Lindsey, Autumn, and Rebecca

5 Ways to Celebrate International Games Week

1. Host a video game tournament.

2. Host a tournament for a tabletop game.

3. Place tabletop games in a visible space for an easy drop-in program.

4. Start a gaming club at your library. A local game shop or Meetup group might become a valuable community partner.

5. Make a display about gaming. Pair fiction books featuring gaming along with non-fiction works (794 in Dewey speak). Use the NoveList theme Press play to start to find your fiction (TH Press play to start).

How will your library be celebrating? Let us know.

But how can gaming help our role as reading advocates?

The era seems to be over when public service announcements encouraging kids to read included statements demonizing video games, TV, or movies.

Instead, we librarians know that games and stories via screen can serve as pathways to attract readers toward the types of books they might enjoy.

There are plenty of books that feature gaming as a component, but have you ever considered that certain books can mirror the experience of a favorite game? Whether you are helping a gamer of the role-playing or puzzle solving variety, try matching gamers to books by player profile. Our contributor** Christen Higgens shares how in her article Ready Player Two (UI 447475).

After reading the article, distribute these printable bookmarks for an easy visual reference to hand to patrons or keep at the desk as a resource.

**Interested in being a contributor? Fill out this survey to pursue.

Thanks for reading!

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