My thoughts on why gaming belongs in libraries:
1. Warhammer, Warcraft and Starcraft: all three of these pc game franchises are based on rich Tolkein like fantasy worlds, with lots of lore and story. There are elements of strategy and economy as well. Books based on the back story can supplement the game experiences.
2. Sports games like Madden Football engage kids in a sport they might not otherwise play. They can be a head coach, player or team and they learn the intricacies of play calling and strategy. ESPN and Fox Sports are using a modified version of the game in their analysis segments.
3. Public Libraries try to include games that have an educational component to them but at the end of the day, don’t some people just want to relax or escape?
4. My Senior Wii bowling league meets every Friday and I put out magazines and local newspapers for them. At my teen video game programs I put out Gaming magazines and Strategy Guides.
5. Many games come with creative modding tools. Not only that, some young adults are interested in video game development as a career. Creating a game requires art, storytelling, programming, physics and math among many other professions. Many universities are providing classes in the History of Video Games and Game Development majors. Check out the game/development software called LittleBigPlanet.
6. In tough economic times, parents are thrilled to check out a $60 game instead of purchasing it. If that game is one within the Zelda universe, parents and children can look forward to a swashbuckling adventure, including clever puzzles and mysteries to solve.
7. Guitar Hero and Rock Band have introduced a whole new generation to classic Rock and Roll and Heavy Metal. By having events in the library, many kids who would otherwise not be able to afford the equipment can experience these party games. Who knows if one of those underprivileged kids will be the next Jimi Hendrix -or at least be inspired to study an instrument.
8. The digital divide gets wider and the have-nots don’t get to experience all the media the world has to offer without libraries.
9. Families are gaming in bigger numbers and who wouldn’t support a family activity. The Wii offers several multiplayer game options for a fun family game night at your library.
10. Many games have a historical element to them. The game ‘Rome Total War’ was used in a History Channel Documentary . Spore is a game that delves into evolution.
The key is to embrace what is inherently educational in games. You can look up any of these games at Gamespot.com if you are interested in knowing more. At the LittleBigPlanet page, you can view levels designed by students at the Parson’s School of Design in NYC.
Sue Scott
