Euskirchen library: Young people test games for the Tommi Prize!

Euskirchen library: Young people test games for the Tommi Prize!

In Euskirchen, the city library is becoming increasingly popular for children and adolescents who can live out their passion for gaming here. "Gaming is not just something for lonely nerds in the booth," emphasizes Julia Rittel, head of the library. In fact, the so-called gaming corner has been well attended since the afternoon and at the weekend. This corner is on the second floor, right in the children's and youth department and offers an appealing environment for players. A mobile partition ensures that the gamers can keep up with their hobby without disturbing the other visitors.

The numerous range of computer and console games complements the traditional library offer and brings a breath of fresh air to the educational institution. In addition, an exciting cooperation has developed in Euskirchen that has existed since 2013. Boys and girls between the ages of eight and 14 act as jurors for the German children's software price Tommi. While testing and evaluating games, you can find out about current trends in the game world.

The role of the Tommi jury

The collaboration between Rittel and her colleague Carmela Rizzuto, who works in the field of media information services, has led to the library involved in this important project. "We have a young jury of children and young people who actively helps to evaluate relevant games and apps," explains Rittel. This year Euskirchen has the honor of being one of only three locations in North Rhine-Westphalia where young jurors come together

The children test a variety of games, including innovations such as "Super Mario Bros. Wonder". "The young people are usually fitter than us," laughs Rizzuto, adding that the social aspects can be clearly felt when playing together in the library together. Sam and Reik, two of the young testers, show great interest and joy in playing, with their reactions constantly switching between the screen and their teammate.

The testing wear orange tapes to mark which games they can try out. Bands in different colors help the library staff to quickly identify age ratios. The testers of Rizzuto, who advises you to be honest and to capture your impressions in an open written assessment. "That should serve as media criticism," she adds.

The innovative range of games

The range of games and interactive experiences is wide. In addition to digital games, there are also physical play equipment such as the robot "Airo". "Airo" uses artificial intelligence to recognize gestures and voice commands. The possible interactions of the testers with these devices also promote creative thinking and problem -solving skills.

An important dimension of the gaming offer in the library is the MINT formation (mathematics, computer science, science and technology). "We want to convey to the children and young people that games can be a form of storytelling," said Rittel. By closely cooperating with schools, the awareness of media literacy is specifically promoted.

The German Children's Software Prize Tommi has been awarded since 2002 and offers the testing the opportunity to deal with around 70 nominated games and educational offers. The price not only stands for quality, but also for the conviction that digital media should be perceived positively - a positive opposite pole for often negative reporting on computer games.

In addition to the gaming activities, the library has large events on offer, such as the recently taken "Manga Day". More than 350 visitors enjoyed workshops and creative actions. The event was a complete success in Euskirchen and confirms the trend towards the modern library as a social and cultural meeting point.

The varied design of the library activities shows how important it is to create space for creative and media education projects. By not only sharing knowledge, but also offers spaces for experiences, it becomes a place that promotes education and leisure activities. More information about the activities and offers of the city library Euskirchen are on www.ksta.de available.