Hosting a Gaming Tournament: First-time Thoughts

I recently hosted a Guitar Hero Tournament at my library--the first one we've ever attempted. I should clarify that my library routinely hosts open-play gaming events for the teens (twice a month, I might add), but I've never been sure about the whole "tournament" concept until recently. Zach, one of the active teens at my library decided we should just do it--host the tournament, that is. I'm glad he convinced me to do this program. The tournament was a success. Registration filled quickly (I even had waiting lists), parents attended, teens drove from other counties to attend the event, and teens who have never previously visited the library participated in the tournament and had a great time.

For those of you considering gaming at your library, I can assure you that it IS worthwhile and it DOES hold merit for your library. Take a look at your library's mission statement. If you work in a public library, I'm guessing that statement says something about providing "entertainment" or "recreation" (or something to that effect) in addition to the educational aspects of your library's purpose. Gaming gets teens to the library. It helps create good relationships between the teens and the teen services librarian. Many teens visit the library regularly because of gaming events, and through those visits, the teens begin to view the library as "THEIR" place to be. I could list a lot more benefits of gaming, but I'll save those thoughts for another day.