On Saturday, November 12 from 12-4 pm, the James Kennedy Public Library along with more than one thousand libraries across the country will join the American Library Association (ALA) for the fourth annual National Gaming Day @ your library. In the 21st century, libraries are about much more than books.  This initiative of the ALA strives to reconnect communities through their libraries around the popularity and educational, recreational, and social value of video and board games.  In 2010, more than 26,000 people played games at more than 1,800 libraries across the U.S. and in other countries.

Libraries have long been known as the place to go for books of all types, from mysteries to biographies, romance to reference. Now, libraries are also a great source for all different types of games.  Gaming of all types at the library encourages young patrons to interact with a diverse group of peers, share their expertise with others (including adults), and develop new strategies for gaming and learning.  Gaming Day is a great opportunity for families to get out of the house and play together in the one community institution that welcomes everyone.  The library is no longer just a place for books, it is a gathering place for all ages. Sure video games attract teen users, but gaming programs are attracting other generations as well. Systems like the Microsoft Xbox and Nintendo Wii offer games ranging from bowling to tennis to racecar driving and appeal to all family members– from kids to grandparents. And libraries have other offerings for those that love board games and traditional games like chess as well.  Gaming is yet another example of how a new format can fulfill the desire to learn, play and yes, read at your library. You can learn more at http://ilovelibraries.org/gaming .

Here at the JKPL we have a wide assortment of board games for patrons to play while in the library or the games can be checked out and played at home.  We also have a small assortment of Wii console games that will be available for check out starting after this gaming event.  We are currently working on expanding our game selection and we gladly accept donations of games in any format.

So on November 12, we invite you to visit the James Kennedy Public Library, from 12-4 pm, to celebrate National Gaming Day @ your library. Bring the whole family (parents, grandparents and the kids) and take a new look at what your library has to offer – it just might surprise you.  JKPL will be offering a variety of games including Frogger Returns and Just Dance 3 on the Wii along with Rock Band on the PS3.  In the board game area there will be Loaded Questions, Jr. and 30 Second Mysteries, just to name a few. We will also have chess boards set up for demonstration, instruction, and play with Earl Vismer, our local chess master. Come for an hour or come for the whole time! Door prizes, snacks, and drinks will be provided. Game on!