Azul is one of the games that will be on the table during the first board game convention at Penn State Wilkes-Barre's Nesbitt Library.
DALLAS, Pa. — If you are feeling “board” this summer, check out Penn State Wilkes-Barre's Nesbitt Library from 9 a.m. to about 4 p.m. on Aug. 1 and 2. Librarians will hold the first of what they say they hope will become an annual board game convention. It is open to all Penn State Wilkes-Barre staff, faculty and students and any library employees across the commonwealth, as well as members of the local community at no cost. Volunteers interested in teaching games are also welcome.
For eight years, the Nesbitt Library has hosted monthly board game nights open to the community, which have received positive feedback from the students who have attended, and which have inspired the librarians to host a two-day convention dedicated to board games.
“Board game nights were definitely the genesis of the convention idea,” said John Owens, the library’s circulation supervisor. “In addition, we also thought it would be a great way to show off our campus to people who had never been here before.”
The event features a large variety of games, including Dungeons and Dragons, Clank, Sagrada, Azul, and Ex Libris. Each game play will be organized into one or more sessions, depending on the number of people who sign up.
Another game that will be featured, called The Library Game, was created by Owens, Information Resources and Services Specialist Chris Burke and former Head Librarian Megan MacGregor. The game simulates writing a research paper. In the game, players start on a Monday, and their paper is due by Friday. The game teaches students about time and resource management.
“It may not sound fun, but it really is,” said Burke. “Every day, certain things are unavailable. The head librarian might not be there, or the computers are down. We even have a coffee station that gives you extra energy. Students who have played the game have said, ‘Oh no, it’s Thursday already,' when the paper is due on Friday.”
Winners at the convention will be awarded prizes from the library’s 3-D printer. Prizes include items such as dice rollers for Dungeons and Dragons. Refreshments will also be provided.
The library team say they hope the convention will continue for years to come.
“I have a feeling that it will,” said Burke. “We already have plenty of signups, and some locals will be attending as well.”
Registration for this event is still open for both volunteers and participants. Contact Nesbitt Library’s circulation supervisor John Owens at [email protected] to register or with any questions.
A full list of the board games in the Nesbitt Library can be found here.
