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The library will host its first ever video gaming event March 8. Kids between the ages of 10 and 18 can check it out between 5:30-8 p.m. at a time when they can be a pretend rock star.

Entertainer Joel Tacey of Bay City will bring the Nintendo Wii gaming system, along with Guitar Hero III, Dance Dance Revolution and Rock Band to the deAngeli branch. "I believe video and board games are a great way to reach tweens and teens, legitimize their interests, and show them all the library has to offer," Tacey said by telephone Friday, and added he got into the video gaming form of entertainment by listening to the demands of clients. "It's social gaming and it's very hot right now. It instantly gets young people very excited and into the library."

Tacey said Guitar Hero started the gaming craze. The game involves playing riffs on a fake guitar while they're playing at the same time on a screen. Video gaming is so hot, the retail industry could not keep up with the demand for it during the holidays.

"I think it's only the beginning," he said. "They're bringing the arcade into the home. When you play these games you feel like a rock star."

Tacey said he will offer the option of open play or tournaments. "I have four video game stations and can accommodate 50 kids at once. It's a great way to reward teens and grow a teen group."

Kate Pohjola, director of the Lapeer District Library said video gaming is another way to involve the 10 to 18 age group with the library. "Joel Tacey has all these games and I'm excited because I've played these games and they're fun."

Pohjola said the event will take over the entire first floor of the branch.

Wii is wireless and uses Bluetooth technology and a hands-free approach to playing games. "It's wireless so you have more freedom. Some libraries are using it with bowling with seniors and especially when they can't pick up a bowling ball," she said.

Dance Dance Revolution allows a player to play notes with their feet, Pohjola said.

"Rock Band is fairly new," she said. "It combines a guitar, a drum pad, and a microphone. You need more than one person to play it."

"This is a way to get teens into the library," said Jan Curtis, children's librarian at the deAngeli branch. "It looks like fun. My college daughter loves Dance Dance. These are expensive items to enjoy and we're very excited about this."

Doors for the event open at 5 p.m. Space is limited. Call the deAngeli Branch at (810) 664-6971 to reserve a spot to rock on at the library. Pizza and snacks will be provided.

Jennifer Decker can be reached at 664-0811, Ext. 8125 or jennifer.decker@lapeergroup.com.