Crash Course in Gaming

(Paperback)

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Description

Video games aren't just for kids anymore. This book will describe the "why" and "how" to start or expand a video gaming program in the library, including some specific examples of how to target adult and female gamer patrons. Gaming supplies more than just visual stimulation and empty entertainment; it can also promote socialization as well as the learning of both traditional and new literacies required to succeed in the modern world. Problem-solving, multi-tasking, complex decision-making on the fly, and "reading" the combination of words and graphics are vital skills for the 21st centuryall of which are required to play video games. Crash Course in Gaming discusses the pros and cons of gaming, the types of games and game systems, circulating collections, and game programs. It explains how a library's video game program canand shoulddo much more than simply draw younger users to the library, providing examples of how everyone from parents to senior citizens can benefit from a patron-oriented computer gaming program. The appendices also include specific games, programs, review sources, and sources for further information.

Reviews

A balanced reading list of professional materials and a short list of picture books are appended. The book is comprehensive, yet centered on the essential elements of this aspect of the profession. * School Library Journal *
Crash Course in Gaming truly presents the reader with a comprehensive overview of how to build a gaming program into their libraryone that will not only be a hit with young adults but also with adults, seniors, and other special populations. . . . This text could easily be used by the inexperienced librarian starting their first gaming program and at $35 is a great deal. * ARBA *

Author Bio

Suellen S. Adams, PhD, is an independent researcher and adjunct professor who has served in that capacity for a number of universities including the University of Rhode Island, The University of Texas at Austin, San Jose State University, and Sam Houston State University.