Pokémon is a popular trading card game, known the world over. But did you know that when it comes to cognitive development, the game of Pokémon is comparable to chess, and it’s deeply rooted in mathematical thinking?

Discover how to bring the excitement of Pokémon into your library! In this session, attendees will explore the new ALA Pokémon Club initiative, developed in partnership with The Pokémon Company International. Learn what’s included in the official club kit, featuring scaffolded activities, resources, and prizes, and see how to adapt them for different ages and community needs. Participants will walk away with practical strategies to launch and sustain a club that sparks curiosity, builds community, and connects young people to strategic thinking, literacy, creativity, and play.

Leonardo Ortiz Villacorta

Casual Play Lead, The Pokémon Company International

Leonardo leads The Pokémon Company International’s initiative to create broad access for young fans to experience the joy and community of Pokémon. He oversees the Pokémon Club program, bringing it to libraries, schools, and other afterschool settings to foster welcoming, inclusive spaces where children and youth can develop cognitive, academic, and social skills through play. Prior to this role, Leonardo built a longstanding career at Microsoft Corp. and Code.org, driving global efforts to expand access to technology and empower young people with essential tech skills.

Sarah C Polen

ALSC Deputy Executive Director, American Library Association

In her role at the Association for Library Service to Children (ALSC), a division of the ALA, Sarah supports library staff serving children and families. ALSC connects children’s library staff with networking, programs, resources, professional development, and other events that advances their work in their communities and supports them to help build healthy, successful futures for all children. Learn more at ala.org/alsc.

Code of Conduct

For questions, please email Eliscia Cirrone, ecirrone@lilrc.org.

Contact Hours: 1

Program Recording:  Yes 

Non-member Ticket Price (log into your account for Member pricing): $10.00

FOR OUR PARTICIPANTS -

1. If you do not receive a confirmation email after registering, please contact Eliscia Cirrone, ecirrone@lilrc.org to check your registration.

2.  If you have any questions regarding this program or registration and program access, please contact Eliscia Cirrone, ecirrone@lilrc.org

3. Please be advised, all invoices for events, programs, or conferences must be paid no later than 60 days from the event date to avoid account suspension.