Dungeons & Dragons and other TTRPGs at Rogers Free Library
What is a TTRPG? What’s Dungeons and Dragons?
A Tabletop Roleplaying Game, or TTRPG, is a collaborative storytelling game where players take on the role of fictional characters and role-play their actions in the game world, usually with a complex set of rules and some element of random chance, like dice rolls, to decide uncertain outcomes. These games are typically guided by a Game Master (GM) who describes the world, plays the roles of any non-player characters (NPCs), and presents challenges for the player characters to overcome. A scheduled gathering to play a TTRPG together is called a “session”; an adventure that begins and ends in a single session is called a “one-shot,” while an adventure that builds over many sessions is called a “campaign.”
Dungeons and Dragons (D&D) is one of the most popular TTRPGs. However, there are many others to play too! Our Teen Space holds the basic rulebooks for Dungeons & Dragons, Pathfinder, and Root, as well as bonus content for Dungeons & Dragons including ready-made stories and extra rules, characters, creatures and ideas for game leaders. Almost all of these books can be checked out from the library for your own games at home.
If you like puzzle-solving, wacky hijinks, beating the boss in a video game, making new friends, or if you just like the idea of playing as a mysterious wizard or a powerful fighter, TTRPGs might be for you!
Frequently Asked Questions
I’ve heard that some D&D characters are “wizards” and “warlocks”, is there real magic in the game?
No. All “magic” in D&D and other TTRPGs is fictional and part of the story—similar to magic in books or movies. No real-world magic, rituals, or belief systems are involved.
Who is the Game Master / GM?
All games are run either by the Teen and Adult Services Librarian (Mr. Gus), by a trusted teen volunteer, or by an adult volunteer. All adult volunteers who work closely with children or teens at Rogers Free Library must first undergo a background check through the Bristol Police Department.
Why play a TTRPG?
Some players would simply say “because they’re fun!” But TTRPGs also help develop reading and listening, teamwork, decision-making, creativity, and confidence, as well as being a great source of screen-free time.
Is the game age-appropriate for teens? What kind of content is typical for a session?
Parents and players should be aware that most D&D sessions will involve some level of fantasy violence. Players may also encounter descriptions of monsters that might be scary, like giant spiders or ghosts. Players with intense phobias of creatures that may come up in game should talk to their GM.
Beyond that, GMs keep content appropriate for the youngest player at the table. Teens are prohibited from roleplaying scenarios involving intoxication, flirting/romance, or excessive cruelty (fighting monsters is fine but not attacking other players, defenseless animals, etc).
How long is a TTRPG session?
It varies between GMs, campaigns, and player availability, but typically between 2 and 3 hours. Session start and end times will always be posted on the calendar. Sessions may end slightly early to provide a smooth transition to the next session and avoid ending in the middle of a fight.
Do players need to know the rules ahead of time, or buy special dice?
No! There are plenty of opportunities to learn as you play, and all materials are provided by the library. Players may benefit from looking up the rules of their game if they are freely available online, but it is not necessary.
What edition of D&D do you play at the library?
Fifth Edition or 5e, typically with 2014 rules (not the updated 2024 rules).
Further questions or comments? Ask Mr. Gus at [email protected].
Current TTPRG Programs
D&D Open Campaign (For ages 11-18)
There is an ongoing Open Campaign that meets once a month on Saturdays, from 2-4:30 PM. You can join this game at any time, even if you’ve never played before! Your character will simply “drop in” and “drop out” of the story, no matter what is currently happening. Please email Mr. Gus at [email protected] before your first session so that we can make sure your character is at the right level to jump into the action!
D&D Closed Campaigns (For ages 11-18)
At the beginning of each school year, there is the opportunity to join a new closed campaign, i.e. a campaign where the same players gather for every session. Some players prefer this consistency, and characters can learn to play off each other’s strengths and weakness. Games typically take place on Thursday evenings.
There are currently two closed campaigns running. If you or your child is interested in playing in a closed campaign in the future, please email Mr. Gus at [email protected] or simply check the August newsletter for the “Session Zero” in September.
Beyond D&D: Other TTRPGs at the library
More information coming soon.
TTPRGs For Adults
More information coming soon.