Traditional library orientations can often feel overwhelming or unengaging for first-year students. Instead of passive tours and boring lectures, we decided to have students embark on an epic quest through the library, guided by wizardly mentors and enchanted tomes. This presentation explores the transformation of a first-year library orientation into an immersive, fantasy-themed adventure. By incorporating gamification elements such as character roles, magical artifacts (library resources), and spell-casting (research skills), students engage with library services in a way that fosters curiosity, exploration, and retention. Attendees will learn what led to this innovative approach, how it was designed, implemented, and assessed for effectiveness in boosting student engagement and information literacy. This session will provide insights into best practices, challenges faced, and lessons learned, equipping participants with strategies to incorporate interactive storytelling and game-based learning in their own orientations. Join us on this magical journey to reimagine library instruction through the power of fantasy!
