Philadelphia, PA 19103-1189
(215) 567-7710
FAX (215) 567-7850
Contact: Communications and Development
The Free Library of Philadelphia Hosts First-Ever Esports Competition for Teens
This teen Esports tournament offers a dynamic blend of fun, competition, and digital skill-building for gamers ages 12 to 18.
PHILADELPHIA - The Free Library of Philadelphia is proud to announce the launch of its first-ever FLoP Bowl, a free Esports tournament for teens, presented in partnership with Nerd Street’s Localhost.
"At the Free Library, we’re committed to creating innovative opportunities for teens to connect, explore their interests, and build community,” said Kelly Richards, President and Director 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."
The tournament allows young gamers to compete in Super Smash Bros. Ultimate on Nintendo Switch, with weekly matches beginning September 22, 2025, through December 8, 2025. There are ten participating Free Library Branches throughout the city. They are:
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Field Teen Center, Parkway Central Library
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Fox Chase Library
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Joseph E. Coleman Northwest Regional Library
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Kingsessing Library
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Lillian Marrero Library
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Lovett Memorial Library
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Lucien E. Blackwell West Philadelphia Regional Library
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Philadelphia City Institute Library
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South Philadelphia Library
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Tacony Library
“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.”
“Nerd Street is committed to providing youth in Philadelphia with greater access to opportunity through gaming,” said Ben Beaver, the Head of Youth and Scholastic Programming at Nerd Street. “In partnering with the Free Library, we're excited to continue with our mission of bringing esports to everyone.”
Interested teens are required to sign up in person at any of the participating Free Library locations. Participants should bring either a library card or a student ID to present to library staff. 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.
There will be two in-person events at Localhost for participants: Midway Madness on Saturday, November 1, 2025, and the Grand Finals on Saturday, December 13, 2025. Teens must be able to arrange their own transportation to and from these events, located at 401 N. Broad St., Philadelphia, PA 19108.
Space is limited, with up to three teams of six teens at each participating library. Slots will be filled on a first-come, first-served basis.
The weekly games will be held on Mondays and Tuesdays from 3:30 to 5:00 p.m. at the participating libraries. The winning team will receive a custom-made trophy, Free Library swag, and gift cards.
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09/02/2025
Department of External Affairs, Free Library of Philadelphia, 1901 Vine Street, Philadelphia, PA 19103-1189
(215) 567-7710, FAX (215) 567-7850