Kitsap Regional Library launched a Minecraft server on June 24 that will allow KRL’s children and teen patrons to participate in the popular building simulation game through its digital branch.

“What’s minecraft? Think of it as virtual legos on steroids,” said Shannon Peterson, KRL’s Youth Services manager. “In the game, users can collaborate in shared environments to build, destroy, trade, stockpile, and evade creepers (one of the monsters found in the survival mode of the game) to their heart’s content.”

Peterson said Minecraft aligns with 21st century learning goals in that it promotes open-networked, peer-based learning and production based projects and processes.

The server, which will be housed on the digital branch at KRL.org/minecraft, will allow kids and teens up to the age of 18 years old to play in a shared space. They will need a Minecraft account to join and will also be asked to submit their library card number in order to access the server. Use of the library card number will allow KRL to verify their age.

Peterson worked with a teen Minecraft Advisory Board to create an opening day space, and the group will also help the server evolve and remain engaging to KRL Minecraft users moving forward.

“We will also be offering a Minecraft Moderator volunteer position to teens in all branches in the next few months,” Peterson said. “That is to help us manage the space and ensure that players follow established rules of conduct. The Advisory Board built the library Minecraft portal brick by brick and represents a serious time commitment by these teens. They are amazing.”

KRL’s Youth Service librarians have also been given access to 25 Minecraft licenses or logins that can be “checked out” from the Youth Services department for branch programs. Peterson expects that most KRL branches will offer Minecraft programs using these licenses very soon.

Manchester Librarian Heidi Larsen has already sponsored a few successful Minecraft programs at her branch.

For more information, Peterson at (360) 405-9156.