By Laurie Voss, Circulation Supervisor

By now, everyone has heard the word “Minecraft,” but what is it all about? After all, since 2009, Minecraft has sold more than 20 million copies!

Before doing this article, I was asking myself the same thing and wondering, what was all the fuss about? So, last week I sat with Kayla Horn, from IT Services, Stephanie Hershberger, and Katie Warrener from Children’s Services, and Kayla demonstrated the game for us.

Even after that demonstration, I was still left wondering….why? So I went to good old Google to do some research. A couple of things popped out right away; teachers are incorporating this game into their lesson plans, and studies show that this is great game for children with ADHD.

People have compared this game to chess; you use strategy to create worlds, weapons and food that you also need to survive. The game requires that you use your imagination to build, but without rules and constraints that come with most games.

This game has been said to be relaxing and simple, but at the same time very complex. I think it boils down to being entertaining, imaginative, and creative. It can be a solo game or something the whole family can be involved in.

The Warsaw Community Public Library is now offering Minecraft classes/play starting this month. Our IT Tech Kayla, has created Worlds that a player can start with, or they can build their own World using their imaginations. Kids in grades K -6 can be involved in single-player games or multi-player modes with other Minecrafters. Caregivers must be in the building during these sessions.

Our classes will be offered from 10-11:30 a.m. Saturday, Sept. 17, 4:30-6 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 20, and again from 4:30-6 p.m. October 17. Kayla will be able to assist the kids, and answer any questions the kids or parents may have. You must register for these sessions, which can be done here through our calendar of events.

Sign up and see what all the excitement is about.