Let's Roll

May 1, 2023

Maxwell's book provides ample resources and support material for library staff who are entirely new to the world of TTRPGs (Tabletop Role-Playing Games), as well as those who are generally familiar with gaming but concerned about some aspect of launching an RPG programming initiative. This title addresses specific hurdles, including finding institutional support, marketing to patrons, and managing a chaotic program session. Supplemental materials include a glossary of common terms, a sample program proposal, case studies from school and public librarians, several recommended reading lists, and brief reviews of a number of simple gateway RPGs that can be learned and played by librarians and patrons with minimal preparation or expertise. This is a well-organized title with very specific strategies for success and a gentle, conversational tone. At times it leans heavily into the personal experiences of the author, a high school librarian, but it does include a number of case study statements from other librarians running TTRPGs in varied library settings and with a range of age groups. VERDICT A slim but comprehensive title with an earnest and encouraging authorial voice. Recommended for any school or public library professional who has felt trepidation about introducing an RPG program.-Anne Nelson

Copyright 2023 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

August 1, 2023

Starting a tabletop role-playing game (TTRPG) program in a school or public library can be overwhelming, but it doesn't have to be, according to school librarian Maxwell (Glenthorn High School, London, UK). Combining his research and firsthand knowledge with case studies from librarians who have experience running gaming programs at their institutions, Maxwell provides a step-by-step guide to setting up a TTRPG experience in either a school or a library. The book highlights published and anecdotal benefits of establishing a TTRPG community, the necessary equipment and resources, tips on successfully organizing and running gaming sessions, a sample program proposal, and recommended-reading lists. Maxwell also includes an overview of basic games that are appropriate for beginning gamers (and soon-to-be game-expert librarians) and can be adapted to a range of library settings. The book is presented in a conversational, engaging style, with Maxwell's own testimonial and experiences interwoven throughout. Librarians will likely appreciate the book's glossary of common terms, which is helpfully located before the main text and allows readers to familiarize themselves with terms early on. VERDICT This short but exemplary work is full of information and useful resources. Recommended for anyone interested in setting up a tabletop role-playing game in a library, a classroom, or any public place.--Andy Myers

Copyright 2023 Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.