The Library as Amusement Park: Public libraries betray their mission in embracing video games
“In the 21st century, libraries are about much more than books!” the American Library Association boasts in conjunction with its event, “the largest, simultaneous national video game tournament ever held!” In the midst of branch closings and budget cuts, public libraries have acquired a new product for loan: video games. Unlike so much of their collection, the games don’t rest long enough on shelves to collect dust. In addition to lending games, libraries now feature on-site consoles, so patrons can play right on the spot.