News
Americas libraries to host one of the largest family game days in history on November 12th
CHICAGO Communities across the United States are coming together
in the spirit of play for the American Library Associations
Fourth Annual National Gaming Day @ your library, Nov. 12.
Sponsored by FamilyandPartyGames.com, this years event expects
to draw more than 20,000 people, young and old, and will feature
popular board games like Loaded Questions, Awkward Family
Photos, The Greatest Day Ever Game and many classic board games
as well.
In the 21st century, libraries are about more than just books.
The goal of National Gaming Day is to reconnect communities
through their libraries around the educational, recreational and
social value of all types of games.
In 2010, more than 26,000 people participated in National Gaming
Day activities at libraries across the U.S. and abroad. This
year, participating libraries will again hold a variety of
gaming activities including board games, role playing games, an
international Epic Super Smash Bros. Brawl tournament, a retro
30th anniversary Frogger contest and more.
"Playing games of all kinds at the library encourages patrons to
interact socially with diverse peers, share expertise with
others and develop new strategies for gaming and learning all
while surrounded by a real world of knowledge," said ALA
president Molly Raphael. "Often video games are played at home,
but playing them at the library makes it a more social
experience that can be shared with their family and friends."
But, game play is much more than simply a means for families to
connect and socialize. Several studies are revealing the
education benefits of gaming, including an online survey among
U.S. parents from RealNetworks. In this survey, 75 percent said
they see educational benefits for their children who play casual
games. And at a time when so many families are struggling and
overwhelmed financially, games are a great alternative for
families to play without much pay.
"The nostalgia and positive interaction associated with board
games are a perfect match for community libraries," says Eric
Poses, president of FamilyandPartyGames.com. "We look forward to
a lot of laughter and memorable experiences on National Gaming
Day."
National Gaming Day @ your library is an annual initiative
supported by the American Library Association and 2011 Sponsor,
FamilyandPartyGames.com, who has donated 3,000 copies of its
bestselling titles, including Loaded Questions, Awkward Family
Photos, The Greatest Day Ever Game and Loaded Questions Junior.
To find gaming events in your community or for more information
about National Gaming Day @ your library, please visit
ilovelibraries.org/gaming.