CFP for a forthcoming issue of Library Trends: "Gaming in Libraries"

Hi all,

I am pleased to share a CFP for a forthcoming issue of Library Trends (
https://www.press.jhu.edu/journals/library-trends): "Gaming in Libraries."
Prospective authors are invited to submit a 475-525 word abstract outlining
their proposed article by September 21, 2026. Full details are available
with the proposal form (
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScU2wtePxyM3S_7ojrb1aT5CGeqSQMGA6Yd_VAJ-3A6q4rQTw/viewform
).

No longer a niche recreational activity, gaming has evolved into a
mainstream cultural activity that intersects with literacy, digital
citizenship, STEM learning, and community building. As libraries continue
to redefine their roles as community hubs and centers for informal
learning, many have embraced gaming through circulating collections,
programming events, and dedicated gaming spaces. From tabletop role-playing
games to esports tournaments, from vintage console collections to virtual
reality experiences, libraries are leveraging games to engage diverse
populations, build 21st-century skills, and create inclusive social spaces.

This issue of Library Trends seeks to examine the current state and future
directions of gaming initiatives in libraries of all types. The guest
editors welcome articles and case studies that explore how libraries are
building, managing, and assessing game collections and gaming programs, as
well as the impact of these initiatives on library users and communities.

If you have questions about article topic ideas during the submission
period, please email Grace Murdock at gkmurdock_at_noctrl.edu. Grace, a
student library intern, will anonymize your inquiry for the editors and
send you their response. For non-topic questions, please contact the
editors: Carl DiNardo, carldinardo_at_usf.edu, and Rebecca Strang,
rdstrang_at_noctrl.edu.

Feel free to share this with listservs and individuals you think may be
interested. Your quest awaits:
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScU2wtePxyM3S_7ojrb1aT5CGeqSQMGA6Yd_VAJ-3A6q4rQTw/viewform

Cheers,
Ben

-- 
Ben B. Chiewphasa* (he/him/his)
Social Sciences & Policy Librarian
Columbia University Libraries
(212) 853-4255 | e: bbc2129_at_columbia.edu
https://orcid.org/0000-0003-4582-8461
*pronunciation: chew-pah-sah