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The use of games in public libraries

Abstract

Games educate, are fun, encourage communication. Public libraries are aware of these advantages and integrate board, computer and console games into their services. In this article, 91 german public libraries were examined with regard to their game services. This includes events on parlour and video games but also other offerings such as the establishment of gaming areas within the library. In addition, the libraries‘ collection are examined with regard to the existence of parlor, computer, and console games. The study is intended to provide a thought-provoking impulse for librarians and decision-makers in the library environment. The results show that many libraries provide a broad spectrum of media, events and spaces for games, but there is still plenty of room for further development.