Blog: The Gaming Zone

The Public Library of Charlotte & Mecklenburg County in North Carolina is one of the leading libraries in teen services that I know of. I've had the privilege of visiting their Imagine On Center, which is a library dedicated to children's and teen services. They also offer a blog- The Gaming Zone, which discusses all of their gaming programs held at the library. Video gaming may seem like an expensive program at first, but take into consideration purchasing gaming equipment through grant money, donations or book sale and once you have your core equipment and a couple of games you are ready to start having gaming events at your library. Think of gaming as an investment, whether it's a board game, card game, video game, etc. they can be reused again and again as long as they're well taken care of. I recommend taking a look at The Gaming Zone to get an idea on types of gaming events to hold at your library. Keep in mind that all ages enjoy gaming, so talk to your community and find out what type of gaming they are interested in.

Book Suggestions

If you're looking for some specific books to use for children and teen programming try some of these. All can be viewed through Google Books.



Fundamentals of Children's Services By Michael Sullivan

Public Library Youth Services: A Public Policy Approach by Holly G. Willett

Bare Bones Young Adult Services: Tips for Public Library Generalists by Renée J. Vaillancourt




Excellence in Library Services to Young Adults: The Nation's Top Programs By Mary K. Chelton

Teen Programming Resource

I've found that teens can be a tough group to work with. It's hard figuring out what type of programs they are interested in attending. RoseMary Honnold, author and Editor in Chief of VOYA Magazine, has a great website dedicated to library programming for teens and programs that will fit everyone's budget. Honnold provides programming information on numerous types of programming including summer reading, contests, teen advisory boards, crafts, gaming, etc. Take time to explore this site and I'm sure you'll find something that your library will be able to use.
I'd like hearing which program ideas you would be interested in doing at your own library. For my library I've tried the henna program with great success. For roughly $25 I was able to buy supplies for 12 teens with plenty of extra. I've also used the puzzlemaker to create word searches, crossword puzzles, etc. to have available for teens at any time. Creating puzzles based on authors or book titles is am inexpensive, fun way to promote the library to teens.