Description:

From video challenges - to role-playing entertainment - to desk-top classics like Uno and chess, libraries are discovering or re-discovering the power and engagement of game-based programming and services. Libraries are increasingly offering gaming opportunities via their spaces, programs, and special events to reach tweens, teens, and intergenerational groups in the communities they serve.  But with all these different types of games and opportunities, there are challenges. What about staff training for all the different video game platforms and games? What about security for video game equipment and desktop pieces?  What programming options work best for the different gaming choices, and what are the gaming trends happening right now?  How to advocate for gaming programs if there is skepticism amongst staff and administration for this aspect of programming services?

This Youth Showcase: Let the Games Begin! will focus on various aspects of game-based services in libraries through sharing and discussion with a panel of Maryland library practitioners.  Each panelist will share what their library organization is doing or thinking about regarding gaming, followed by QA time and open discussion amongst attendees about other special events, programs, partnerships, or concerns they have to help create engaging and educational game-based programs and services for tween, teens and intergenerational groups.

Learning Objectives -- Participants will be able to:

• Name one strategy to implement regarding staff training for game-based services
• Identify at least one safety/security consideration regarding games-based services and a corresponding practice to employ that will address that safety concern
• Name one benefit of gaming that could be used in advocacy efforts for games-based services and programs

Panelists: 

• Amanda Byer, Teen Specialist, Baltimore County Public Library
• Mark Foley, Librarian, Carroll County Public Library
• Isaiah West, Teen Specialist, Prince George’s Memorial Library System
• Jake Ciarapica, Young Adult Services Manager, Enoch Pratt Free Library

CE Hours: 1.5

Registration opens:  October 15th.  

Registration closes:  January 15th, 2026, 5:00pm.  A Zoom link will be sent to all registrants.