The Free Library of Philadelphia is leveling up.
For the first time in its history, the library system is launching the FLoP Bowl, a citywide esports tournament for teens, giving young gamers a chance to turn their passion for play into a competitive, community-building experience. The free tournament, presented in partnership with Nerd Street’s Localhost, will pit players against one another in Super Smash Bros. Ultimate on Nintendo Switch.
“We’re committed to creating innovative opportunities for teens to connect, explore their interests, and build community,” said Kelly Richards, President of the Free Library of Philadelphia. “FLoP Bowl is a chance for young gamers to challenge themselves and have fun in a supportive, citywide competition. We can’t wait to see the energy and talent they bring to the tournament.”
Weekly matches kick off Sept. 22 and run through Dec. 8 at ten participating library branches, including: Field Teen Center, Parkway Central Library, Fox Chase Library, Joseph E. Coleman Northwest Regional Library, Kingsessing Library, Lillian Marrero Library, Lovett Memorial Library, Lucien E. Blackwell West Philadelphia Regional Library, Philadelphia City Institute Library, South Philadelphia Library and Tacony Library.
The weekly games will be held on Mondays and Tuesdays from 3:30 to 5 p.m. Each location will field up to three teams of six teens, filling slots on a first-come, first-served basis. A complete schedule can be found online.
“We’re thrilled to offer this new program for teens who are passionate about gaming and esports,” said Rachel Hludzinski, Library Supervisor of the Teen Field Center at Parkway Central Library. “The FLoP Bowl gives teens an opportunity to not only compete in a fun, structured tournament, but to gain valuable skills and experience in the growing world of Esports.”
The library’s new venture comes at a time when Esports popularity is surging. Nerd Street, a Philadelphia-based gaming organization, has been pushing to make competitive gaming moreaccessible.
“In partnering with the Free Library, we’re excited to continue with our mission of bringing esports to everyone,” said Ben Beaver, the company’s Head of Youth and Scholastic Programming.
Teens who want to participate must sign up in person at a participating library, bringing a student ID or library card. An adult is not required to be present at sign-up, but teens must be able to provide a parent or guardian’s contact information.
The season builds toward two marquee in-person events at Localhost, Nerd Street’s headquarters on North Broad Street: Midway Madness on Nov. 1, and the Grand Finals on Dec. 13. Winners will take home a custom trophy, Free Library swag, and gift cards—along with the kind of citywide bragging rights no gamer can resist.
“We can’t wait to see the energy and talent they bring to the tournament,” Richards said.
