Video Game Clubs of America (VGCUSA) focuses on establishing gaming clubs in educational settings to make the socially awkward socially active through the power of good sportsmanship, gaming, and social and emotional learning. Gaming clubs include all types of games, including console and computer games, as well as board, table, and card games.
In 2022, the Office of Commonwealth Libraries’ “Out of School Time” LSTA-Funded project worked with VGCUSA to provide support and materials to 19 school libraries to offer this program to learners. In 2023, up to 25 more schools may be offered this opportunity for Pennsylvania youth. Fill out this application to request materials and support to create a gaming club in your school library.
Approved applicants will:
- Receive a Nintendo Wii Starter Kit (Nintendo Wii, select Wii Games, HDMI adapters, 2 controllers, delivery to the school)
- Receive up to $100 in board games to begin or expand your collection
- Receive up to $250 worth of gaming club materials (examples: headsets, controllers, adapters, video. board, or card games)
- Receive a Padcaster Studio Kit and iPad
- Create and maintain a gaming club using the materials above, including recruiting students to participate
- Participate in a monthly community of practice call for club leadership to interact, discuss, and connect. Calls take place on the first Thursday of the month from 7-8 P.M. via Microsoft Teams.
- Complete and submit an impact report Video Game Clubs of America for Pennsylvania School Libraries 2023 Impact Report Questions by October 30, 2023.
- Help learners in your building cultivate relationships through gaming opportunities
Please review the VGCUSA FAQ for details about the above before applying. Your Superintendent or Principal must complete the Video Game Clubs of America for Pennsylvania School Libraries 2023 Authorizing Signature Page to be included with the application. Applications will be scored using Video Game Clubs of America for Pennsylvania School Libraries 2023 Selection Criteria.
This project is made possible by Library Services and Technology Act (LSTA) funds from the U.S. Institute of Museum and Library Services administered by the Pennsylvania Department of Education, Office of Commonwealth Libraries.
Applications are due by 7 P.M. on Wednesday, January 18, 2023. Applicants will be notified by Friday, January 27, 2023. Please direct any questions to Corri Hines (cohines@pa.gov), School Age Services Advisor for the Office of Commonwealth Libraries.