Libraries allow for the borrowing of many types of media: books, DVDs, and music. So why aren’t there videogames available at libraries? I have no idea.

My local library decided to try it a couple years ago. Our selection isn’t that great, I’ve only seen perhaps 12 different games so far, and only 3-5 seem to be in stock at a time. However, thanks to the library’s collection, I’ve discovered the Jak and Daxter series, Sly Cooper, and Ratchet and Clank. I also came across a solid game called Sphinx and the Cursed Mummy, which looks like a shitty kid’s game but is actually quite solid.

Giving someone with limited resources the option to play videogames is great, and the collection also gives people the option to try games they normally wouldn’t buy/rent, since its free. I remember when my mother brought home Sphinx, the first videogame I played from the library, and said she got it from the library. I was like “That’s pretty cool”, but was not uplifted by her choice of software. Whatever though, “it’s free” I thought. I popped it in, and was absorbed enough to beat it in a week. I started occasionally checking the small videogame section, and played the previous three games over time, all which were quality experiences and persuaded me to purchase the sequels.

Starting a Video Game Library

If you have some old PS2, Gamecube, or Xbox games, instead of getting raped by Gamestop with shitty buying prices, why not donate to the library and start a videogame section? I think the process would go something like this:

1. Communicate with your library that a videogame section would be a nice addition to their facility. If they are reluctant, point out that its basically the same thing as managing the DVD section.

2. You/they should put up simple printed out pages stating that a videogame section is trying to be created and that donations would be appreciated.

3. You yourself should give a game or two. People might not care at first about the program, but if you donate a solid old game or two, and people enjoy it, they may appreciate what is trying to be done more and be more supportive and donate something.

If it gets going, not only does your community benefit, but you do to, since you yourself can rent other people’s games too.

Games NOT to donate:

1. Mature rated games – Kids have access to these games. Putting Gears of War or Mortal Kombat on the shelf for them is not good. Parents may be upset when they find out their child has obtained a gory game, and if they complain early on, the library may discontinue the project. Also, kids shouldn’t be playing those types of games in the first place, so please be responsible and keep them away. Keep it Teen rated or below.

2. Sequels in story driven games – To a random gamer, seeing Shin Megami 2 isn’t very appealing, since they haven’t played the first one, and figure they won’t understand what’s going on this one. Sequels are OK if it’s something like Burnout 3 or Street Fighter Alpha 3 (story doesn’t matter). If you would like to stir up interest in your favorite franchise, try to donate the first entry.

3. Long RPGs – You want the game to be shared, and a long RPG will be kept by one person and renewed a lot for a good period. You want everyone to be able to experience your game, so shorter ones are probably better.

*4. (added after looking at comments) Valuable games - X360 games and PS3 games are likely to get stolen. Donate older games that don't have much value. Stuff like Tekken 4, Capcom Classics Collection, Jak and Daxter, and Midnight Club 2.*

And that’s it. Give it a shot if you would like to make your library a little cooler, and spread the goodness of gaming!