Come hang out with Leeds’ young gamers

Leeds Libraries aren’t just for reading and using the computer, they’re also a great safe place for children and young people to hang out and get involved in activity sessions and groups.

In today’s child friendly blog, Central Library librarian Dawn explains why she thinks young people should get involved in their ‘games group.’  You can also get young people’s views of the project in the video below…

“We started up Central Library’s games group with the group Youth Point after realising there were lots of young gamers in Leeds who had nowhere to meet where they were watched over by staff to ensure they were safe and had a good time.

“So we started the group meeting every Wednesday evening in the Exhibition Space at Central Library and it has gone from strength to strength. We usually attract between 15 and 25 young people between the ages of 11 and 19, with young people attending from all areas of Leeds and from many different backgrounds, abilities and circumstances. Our group really brings young people together and has encouraged lots of friendships.

“The young people play all sorts of different games at the group, including: card games, board games and Warhammer. The games we play are meant to be fun but they also encourage reading, listening and communication skills, which all helps with the young people’s education. The group help us make decisions about which games to buy and it’s completely up to them to decide which games they beat us older people at!

“Many of our gamers have been gone on to become Library volunteers, helping out at Minecraft, Lego and craft events.  We are now hoping to expand the group to other branch Libraries in the future using our members as expert volunteers.”

 A big thanks to Dawn for taking the time to tell us her story!

There are loads of fantastic things going on at Leeds Libraries and you can find out more on the Leeds Libraries website. The gaming group is held from 4-7pm every Wednesday, so if you’re a avid gamer or want to find out more, drop in!

Are you a young gamer? Have you set up a great group for young people in the city? Why not let us know on Twitter or Facebook, or by leaving a comment below…