Meredith Jenson-Benjamin, librarian for the Arizona public library system moderated a panel of fellow librarians from across the United States who discussed the present and future state of non-traditional media in public libraries. While graphic novels, poker tournaments, and games came up, the issue of video games dominated the hour-long discussion at the San Diego Comic-Con session.

　　With game strategy guides available in many libraries, not all of them have the associated games available for public use. Anybody who has checked out disk-based media from their local branch is undoubtedly familiar with the scratched and nearly unplayable state of the media. Damaged media is but one of multiple reasons libraries charge patrons to check out games, movies, and certain compact discs. One of the prominent other reasons is that charging to check out existing media is the only way the library can afford to purchase new games, movies, and music. Since most libraries are publicly funded --whether that means federally funded from tax dollars, municipally funded through tax dollars, or supported by generous private donors, the library is not a for-profit entity--few can afford to invest in costly media that may not be either in high demand or approved by the branch's board.

　　According to the panelists, many librarians are willing, interested, and supportive of games in their catalogues. Unfortunately, with boards that rarely (if ever) have well-informed players in positions of influence, few forward-thinking librarians get approval to carry games. Susan White, panelist and librarian was able to increase her library's anime, game, and comic collection by 4000%. Traditional staff opposed the inclusion of games, especially when Susan removed the redundant reference section. Susan is but one of the librarians across the nation who agree that adults play games, read comics, or listen to rap music. According to the panel many public library board members think such behavior is not only juvenile but also irresponsible.

　　When asked how the greater gaming community can help change board thinking or otherwise support free access to pricey interactive media, the panel provided numerous options. The most effective actions for end users included:

　　Use material selection forms or suggestion forms to request more gamesUse the library for other mediaVolunteer your time Talk to your local library's adult reference staff Write a letter to the branch manager Write to the board of directors Get on the library board

　　When appealing to institutions, the panelists admonished community members to be polite and respectful, yet clear in their wish to have more of their preferred media made available. Susan said, "do your homework; justify the socially responsible outcomes of gaming."

　　The game catalogue in Glendale, Arizona has drawn more people into the libraries for gaming and other programs. Attendance in the Jujitsu classes taught by local cage fighters, organized journal writing sessions, and organized family programs have all seen a significant uptick in attendance since the games became available.

　　At the end of the day, librarians can only do so much to push their board to allow games for public use. If enough patrons were vocal about wanting the service, then more games would inevitably be made available.