Story provided by Stillwater Public Library
Stillwater Public Library (SPL) is hosting a virtual Dungeons and Dragons program for teens in grades 6-12 on Friday, March 25, at 6 p.m. The program has a limited number of slots available and registration is required.
Dungeons and Dragons (D&D) is a fantasy role-playing game where players work collaboratively through a series of adventures, gathering treasure and experience points along the way. A Dungeon Master (DM) creates the storyline and guides participants throughout the game. The Library’s program will be a “one-off” campaign played in one sitting rather than an ongoing game that requires a long-term commitment. These one-offs are a great way to get started with D&D and provide an opportunity for new players to see if they like the gameplay while giving veteran players a fun, quick storyline to play through.
A Teen Advisory Committee (TAC) member and an adult DM that has experience coordinating games for teens will run the program. Teen Librarian Jessica Howe will also be at the program to monitor and help with any technical issues.
Howe thinks that this program will be a great way for teens to get creative and step outside their comfort zones in a safe space.
“D&D allows players to become a completely different character if they want,” Howe said. “If they are normally shy, this might be a great time for them to be a literal giant that takes up room and has a big booming voice. It’s a game they’re able to take chances in that they might not normally take.”
Participants will play online using a combination of Jitsi (a video conference software that doesn’t require any downloads) and Roll20 (a role-playing game website that will allow campaign maps to be shared and users to roll dice during their turn). Attendees will not be required to have their cameras turned on but must connect to the video call to participate.
TAC members, like the ones who planned this program, sign up for a year-long term to help plan teen library programs, provide input on which young adult materials to order and volunteer for events and projects as needed. Members earn community service hours that library staff verify for resumes, college applications and other programs requiring proof of volunteer hours. They also gain leadership experience, make new friends and community connections and are eligible to participate in TAC-only programs and events.
Registration for the teen virtual D&D program and TAC can be found at library.stillwater.org/teen_services.php or call the Help Desk at (405) 372-3633 x8106.
Stay up to date with teen activities and events on social media channels by following @StillwaterOKLib. Sign up for the library’s email newsletter to get monthly updates at library.stillwater.org/library_newsletter.php.
The Stillwater Public Library is located at 1107 S. Duck St. Library hours are Monday- Wednesday, 9 a.m. to 7 p.m.; Thursday, 9 a.m. to 9 p.m.; Friday, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.; Saturday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Sunday 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.