2008

ALA's National Gaming Day, first celebrated in 2008, focuses on the social and recreational side of gaming. Gaming at the library encourages patrons of all ages to interact with diverse peers, share their expertise and develop new strategies for gaming and learning. At the library, kids can socialize with their friends and play board and video games while surrounded by books, librarians and a real world of knowledge.

"International Games Day @ your library is an initiative of the American Library Association to reconnect communities through their libraries around the educational, recreational, and social value of all types of games.

In the 21st century, libraries are about much more than books.This year marks our 6th annual event. On Saturday, November 3, 2012, more than one thousand libraries around the world showcased gaming programs and services in support of IGD12. In 2011, more than 27,700 people played games at more than 1,400 libraries across the U.S. and in other countries." Read More

Read here for a summary of the 2012 experience

"During International Games Day, participating libraries from all fifty states and countries abroad, including Australia, Japan, the Philippines and the United Kingdom, will hold a variety of gaming activities that include modern board games, video games, card games, and role-playing games, as well as two international video game tournaments featuring the games Super Smash Bros. Brawl and Mario Kart time trials." Read more from the Programming Librarian

"More than 1,000 libraries nationally are participating.

In 2011, more than 27,700 people played games at more than 1,400 libraries across the U.S. and in other countries.

Many libraries are stocking their shelves with video games, planning board game competitions and participating in an international video game tournament. As a result, recreational library attendance by kids, teenagers, college students, families, and seniors will skyrocket even further." Read more from @ your library