GPL Column: Gaming together at the library

For years I dreamed of being an aunt. I couldn’t wait for my brothers to start having kids of their own so that I could have cute children in my life without the responsibility of actually having to raise them.

I had plans to be the “cool” relative – taking them on adventures, causing mischief and spoiling them rotten. And I selfishly wanted to invite them over to my home for game nights. Yes, I could have invited my friends and peers, but as a non-competitive individual who genuinely likes the comradery maybe a little more than the game play itself, being surrounded by intense individuals who will do anything to win isn’t really my idea of fun. I typically spend most of my time trying to help other people win. That’s just my vibe, a vibe that competitive adults don’t really appreciate. But kids who don’t really know what’s going on? They love it. And now with three nephews to play with, I’m definitely getting my fill of board games and laughter. (Spoiler…they win every time.)

If you haven’t dabbled in the world of gaming lately, the assortment of board games, card games and role-playing games is truly staggering. The artwork is beautiful and the designs intricate. There really is something for every type of gamer – from the newbie to the experienced strategists. Playing games is an easy and fun way to stimulate the brain and to foster important life skills like problem solving, cooperation, and complex thought processes. It can keep us young, but more importantly, games can bring us together.

Libraries across the state are now investing in board game collections for patrons to check out – a try them all until you find the type of game you love kind of approach. It’s also a great opportunity for individuals and families to play a game before choosing to purchase it for their personal collections. Family game nights, holiday events, long weekends and Tuesday evenings – the Greenwood Public Library has you covered on games.

But we’re also always looking for ways to bring our community together. That’s why this year we’re celebrating International Games Week at GPL. International Games Week is a designated week that libraries all over the world agree to play games in the spirit of cooperation.

Join us Nov. 2 and Nov. 4 at 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. for “Scrabble and Coffee.” Scrabble is all fun and games until someone loses an I. That was a horrible joke, but it’s going to be a fun event. Come join us for a laid-back morning of Scrabble. We’ll provide the scrabble boards, coffee and a few tasty snacks to get you through your game. Feel free to bring a friend to challenge or meet someone new that is waiting for some friendly competition.

On Nov. 3 from 6 to 7:45 p.m. the library is hosting a “life-size” gaming night for the whole family. Check out our giant chess and checker board in TeenHQ or challenge an opponent to life-size Candyland. Sorry, Jenga, or Monopoly. Or if “big” games aren’t your thing, relax and try out one of the games available to check out at the library or available for use during your next visit. A couple of slices of free pizza will be available to players while supplies last.

On Nov. 5 at 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. you can join us for “The Great Puzzle Swap”. Is there a closet in your house with a stack of pristine puzzles that are collecting dust? Do you wish you could do a new puzzle, but don’t really want to spend the money? Well, do we have the program for you. To participate, drop off a puzzle to the 2nd floor reference desk from Oct 22nd – Nov 4th. For each puzzle that you donate, you’ll receive a ticket for the November 5th event. One ticket = one puzzle you get to pick out at The Great Jigsaw Puzzle Swap. If you donate five puzzles, that means you get five tickets to pick out five new puzzles. It’s that easy.

So, come one and come all to a fun week of gaming, laughter and snacks. We hope you’ll help GPL celebrate International Games Week!

Emily Ellis is the Assistant Director at Greenwood Public Library. GPL staff members share in writing this bi-monthly column for the Daily Journal. Send comments to [email protected].