Gaming at the Library

I’ve noticed working in a comic and game store and upswing in the desire to sit down and play board games, card games, and role playing games with others rather than simply sit behind a computer and play with or against faceless people all over the globe. Don’t get me wrong I think that online game is a great invention and can be the perfect setting for some people, but there is something about sitting down with friends or fellow enthusiasts of a game and enjoying the atmosphere of play.

I’ve found from checking numerous different library websites in the area that game nights are becoming more and more common. I think that this is do to the fact that they are on a comeback after the initial interest of online gaming has waned a little. Also shows like Wil Wheaton’s Tabletop which are free to watch online give people the opportunity to see a new game being played by a variety of people without having to worry about spending money on a game they may not like. One of the drawbacks of tabletop gaming is that if you don’t do enough research or know someone that has played the game before you might be sinking in a lot of money that you won’t play after the first time or two. (This has happened to me on a few occasions and I have to say that Wil Wheaton’s show has definitely steered me in the right direction more than once.)

In addition to bringing in more people to the library for game nights the library can highlight their collection based on the games that they are offering to teach. I think this is a great way for the library to show how they are a center for learning not just from books, but from other patrons. The coupling of local businesses with libraries to offer these nights is a step in a new direction for librarians and patrons alike.