This document summarizes a presentation about gaming programs at libraries. It discusses defining games and their benefits for libraries. Ways to serve gamers include reader's advisory, acting as a strategy guide, embracing gaming culture, and trying games. Successful gaming programs involve research, marketing, variety, play opportunities, and evaluation. Examples are provided of model gaming programs at different libraries.
51. 1. What is the average age of the gamer?* *Entertainment Software Association. “Industry Facts. http://www.theesa.com/facts. Accessed June 12, 2008. 35
52. 2. What % of teens report playing games online?* *Pew Internet & American Life Project. Teens, Games and Civics, September 2008. http://pewinternet.org/PPF/r/263/report_display.asp . Accessed September 24, 2008. 97%
53. 3. What % of people over age 50 play games?* *Entertainment Software Association. “Industry Facts. http://www.theesa.com/facts. Accessed June 12, 2008. 26%
54. 4. What % of gamers are female?* *Entertainment Software Association. “Industry Facts. http://www.theesa.com/facts. Accessed June 12, 2008. 40%
55. 5. What % of gamers read on a regular basis? *Entertainment Software Association. “Industry Facts. http://www.theesa.com/facts. Accessed June 12, 2008. 32 % 93%
56. 6. How many billions of dollars did the computer and game sales gross in the US in 2007?* $9.5 billion *Entertainment Software Association. “Industry Facts. http://www.theesa.com/facts. Accessed June 12, 2008.
57. 7. What % of games sold in 2007 were rated M for Mature?* *Entertainment Software Association. “Industry Facts. http://www.theesa.com/facts/. Accessed June 12, 2008. 15%
59. 8. What % of public libraries allow patrons to play computer games?* 82% *Nicholson, Scott. (2007). The Role of Gaming in Libraries: Taking the Pulse. July 2007. http://boardgameswithscott.com/pulse2007.pdf . Accessed June 12, 2008.
60. 9. What % of public libraries host videogame programs?* 13% *Nicholson, Scott. (2007). The Role of Gaming in Libraries: Taking the Pulse. July 2007. http://boardgameswithscott.com/pulse2007.pdf . Accessed June 12, 2008.
61. 10. What % of public libraries circulate videogames?* 30% *Nicholson, Scott. (2007). The Role of Gaming in Libraries: Taking the Pulse. July 2007. http://boardgameswithscott.com/pulse2007.pdf . Accessed June 12, 2008.