The Otsego County Library welcomes patrons to use their gaming systems (Nintendo Switch and Meta Quest 2 VR Headsets donated by the Friends of the Otsego County Library). Children under the age of 12 must obtain permission from a parent or guardian.
Purpose: Gaming is offered to make the library enticing to youth and teens, to encourage them to visit the library, to develop a love of books and reading, and to expose them to all other services available at the library.
Anyone using the gaming systems must read and agree to the Gaming Policy before use. The rules in the policy are set up to ensure proper and safe use of the equipment and allow fair access to all patrons. Failure to follow these rules of conduct will result in loss of gaming privileges. Any damages that occur to the library’s space and to the gaming equipment will be the responsibility of the patron or patrons using the gaming systems at the time the damage occurs. A manual or digital invoice may be generated and attached to the patron’s library card number or patron account to pay for damages. A letter explaining the damage charges may be sent to the patron’s home address. This will be handled on a case by case basis.
- The patron must have an Otsego County Library card in good standing.
- Each patron is limited to one hour of gaming per day. If no one is waiting to use the system, play may continue. Anyone using the Gaming System must be willing to end the game when requested by staff.
- Patrons must sign in to use the gaming systems at the front desk. Any backpacks must be left at the front desk during game play. At the time of sign in, the patron will be given the key to all accessories that are needed to play. After the play period is up, the patron must check the items back in to a staff member and sign out.
- Patrons using the gaming area are asked to respect others using the library and keep the volume and noise level low.
- Children under the age of 10 must have an adult or caregiver in the building while playing.
- Gamers may only use the gaming equipment and games available at the library. No outside games, controllers, or units may be used in or with the Otsego County Library equipment without staff approval.
- Inventory of gaming accessories will be taken after the gaming session by the staff.
- Gamers are asked to treat the equipment gently. Those patrons that do not treat the equipment gently or are too loud and disruptive will be asked by the staff to stop for the day. Gamers who repeatedly abuse the equipment will have gaming privileges revoked indefinitely.
- Gamers must quit play and check equipment back in to the staff 15 minutes before library closing.
- Gaming systems will be for Library use only, and will not be checked out for home use, unless permission is granted by the Library director.
This policy will be posted in the gaming area.
A copy of the signed Gaming Policy will be kept on file at the library. Parents wishing to have a copy of the rules may obtain one from the service desk.
Adopted: September 19, 2023