Gamers unite in local libraries for a week of play 

Kensington and Chelsea Council and Westminster City Council libraries will be celebrating International Game Week from 6 to 13 November to encourage our communities to connect with their local library and enjoy the benefits of games. 

A range of events will create opportunities for people to socialise, but research has also highlighted many other benefits of tabletop games, particularly for children and young people. From helping development of numeracy and literacy skills, improving confidence and social skills, and supporting those with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) to better learn and engage with others, there are countless benefits to group gaming. 

More: What's Kensington's favourite board game?

Cllr Kim Taylor-Smith, lead member for employment, culture and economy said: “Games have the power to bring people together, but in our increasingly digital world it is harder than ever to find the time to get stuck into a challenging board game with friends. That’s why our games library is a real source of pride for the Council. 
 

“It is bringing experienced gamers into our libraries and giving budding gamers the chance to explore a range of different titles all while socialising and learning from one another. I encourage anyone who enjoys tabletop games to come along to an International Games Week event at one of our welcoming libraries.”

There will be a variety of free events and activities to be enjoyed by experienced gamers and newcomers alike taking place in libraries across Kensington and Chelsea and Westminster throughout the week. 

This time last year the bi-borough Games Library initiative was launched to make tabletop games more accessible, provide regular events and activities for all age groups, and create valuable work experience opportunities for young people. 

The Games Library has seen significant success with 75 per cent of the 350 available games being regularly borrowed and seven regular events taking place each month for residents aged 13 and up. 

The Games Library provides an alternative to screen time, offering an engaging environment for people to play and learn in that is safe from the harms that excessive internet device usage can cause. Research conducted by non-profit Internet Matters shows that parents particularly are becoming increasingly concerned with the negative physical impacts that screen time is having on their children, with 63 per cent believing that their children’s physical health is negatively impacted by screentime.

Games facilitators and teachers are seeing firsthand the positive impact of the Games Library on children’s development. Children who were having trouble with realising their full potential in school have found a space to flourish in the gaming environment. Facilitators observed incredible problem-solving skills, creativity and teamwork among players. With national challenges such as falling school attendance levels, a rise in mental health concerns and a high demand for SEND provision, the Games Library is providing a valuable resource that is both educational and fun.

You can find all International Games Week events on the council website.