Local children tested each other’s hand-eye coordination skills last week during Dawson County Library’s Gaming at the Library program.

The once-a-month event gives young people a place to hang out for a couple hours, and compete against each other on a big-screen projector.

They seem to think it’s a pretty neat idea.

“It’s awesome,” said 13-year-old Dawson County resident Zack Richardson, who recently moved to the area. “It’s really cool.”

Richardson added that the library in his former hometown had a similar program for young people.

Will Stamey, who shared a game of Super Smash Brothers with Richardson Dec. 3, said Gaming at the Library is “a pretty good idea.”

Video game opponent Morgan James Henderson agreed. “It’s cool they do this,” said Henderson, 11, of Dawson County. “It’s a lot of fun, and I get to make new friends here.”

Youth Services Specialist Tracy Walker said that’s the spirit behind the program.

“They get to socialize,” said Walker. “Also, we’re getting kids in the door. They’re able to be entertained, but they also get to explore the library while they’re here.”

Walker said the event brings in about 20 kids each afternoon it’s held. “There are a lot of regulars here, but a few new ones too,” she said.

“This helps us get to know the teens in our community and find out what their needs are,” she added.

For information about next month’s free Gaming at the Library program, call (706) 344-3690 or visit www.chestateelibrary.org.