Tips for Planning your Games@theLibrary Event

Choose your demographic: Who would games appeal to at your branch; children, families, teens, adults, seniors? Do you want to try to attract a group that doesn’t normally attend library programs? Your choice will influence when the program will be held and the type of game that’s appropriate.

Choose your game: The game-themed event is entirely your choice. You could have an "analog" game tournament, with boardgames or cards, or go high-tech and hold a video gaming event. You are limited only by your imagination, energy levels, and the resources available to your library. Check out our Game ideas for your library page for inspiration, and to learn about more unconventional games like geocaching or roll-playing.
 
Think about space: Where will you hold the event? How many participants do you expect? How will noise levels effect other library users?
 
Advertise: There is a downloadable poster and logo on our Games@theLibrary homepage. Contact local schools or community groups, and local media to get the word out, and use your library’s website to promote your event.
 
Let staff play too: Make your event fun for everyone by letting staff get in on the game. Library users, especially teens, will enjoy interacting with staff in a positive way.
 
Prizes?: Some game events are fun and enticing without prizes. Depending on the event you're planning, think about whether your library is able to offer a small prize. Some libraries offer fine reductions as prizes. Remember, all participants can enter to win the Atlantic Canada-wide grand prize, a Nintendo Wii.
 
Provide Refreshments: Having snacks and beverages available is always a great way to attract people to your event, especially teens.