Thanks to a grant awarded from the Tennessee State Library and Archives, the Linebaugh Public Library System will offer a plethora of video game programs running from August 2009 through Summer 2010.
Both the Linebaugh and the Smyrna branches will be partnering with the Rutherford County YMCA and the Smyrna Senior Center to offer programs that will be geared for teens (ages 12-18), seniors (ages 55 and older), and families (all ages).
Kicking off the public gaming sessions at the Linebaugh branch is the Teen Back to School Bash on August 22nd, from 4:45-8:00pm. Teens will be able to jam out with their friends on Rock Band 2 – a rhythm-based game for the Nintendo Wii that uses instrument-shaped controllers and popular music – and experience other teen programming that Linebaugh and the YMCA has to offer.
On September 12th at 2:30pm, Smyrna teens will also have the opportunity to rock the socks off the Smyrna branch by displaying their Rock Band 2 skills. Linebaugh will offer a celebration for the whole family on the Nintendo Wii’s “birthday” on September 14th by providing birthday cake and a round of Mario Kart Wii, a fun and thrilling racing game with all of your favorite Nintendo characters!
Seniors will have an opportunity to do some low-impact “virtual bowling” at the Smyrna branch on October 10th at 2:30pm, using lightweight controllers instead of heavy bowling balls to pick up a spare. Future programs will feature information sessions on the Wii, Dance Dance Revolution and Madden NFL 09 competitions, and other popular video games. For a full list of gaming programming, visit www.linebaugh.org/gaming.htm.
The intent of this program series is to promote lifelong learning and literacy in the library through video game programs, while raising awareness about library services. “I hope the library can make local families, teens, and seniors aware that gaming is not just for kids anymore,” said Roy Lee, Youth Services Assistant at Linebaugh Library. With games like Wii Fit (a fitness game) and The Price Is Right (based on the popular television series), video games are no longer catering to young boys and couch potatoes, he said.
According to a recent Pew Research poll, 76% of teenagers who are into gaming play with someone else at least some of the time, as compared to just 24% who only play alone. Furthermore, 65% of those who play with others play with other people in the room. As more multi-player games that transcend gender and age are released, the potential for programs that bring in large numbers of diverse groups to a social setting, some who may have never set foot in a public library, also increases.
“Additionally, many games are very literary,” said Mel Hiers, library clerk at Smyrna Library. “RPGs (role-playing games) require players to read text and use puzzle-solving skills. And with games like the ones based on the Harry Potter series, readers can virtually explore a world that was created in a book.”
Lee and Hiers also hopes to break the stereotypes of the library, as well. “Many modern libraries, including Linebaugh Library System, are trying to snuff the image of being dull, quiet buildings filled with dusty books, and re-invent themselves as social hubs, where a lot more than just reading is going on!” Lee said.
“Modern libraries are cultural centers. They not only provide literature, but art and learning activities as well. Our video game programming covers all three while encouraging social interaction,” said Hiers. “It is our hope that these programs will enrich the lives of our community members.”
This program series is possible thanks to a $5000 Community Building Through Video Games in Libraries grant, funded by the Institute of Museum and Library Services through the Library and Services Technology Act, administered by the Department of State, Tennessee State Library and Archives.
Linebaugh Public Library is located at 105 W. Vine St. in Murfreesboro; Smyrna Public Library is located at 400 Enon Springs Rd. W. The Library is the cornerstone of our community, enriching lives through free resources for learning, fun, and opportunity. For more information, call 615-893-4131 or 615-459-4884, or visit www.linebaugh.org.
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