Enjoy a cozy winter with puzzles and board games from the library 🧩🎲

Looking for something to do during these winter months? Look no further than the library! This year, we'd like to get our patrons familiar with our "Special Collections" and digital services we offer. Special Collections in libraries are those collections that aren't the things you'd typically associate with checking out at the library. Some libraries have seed exchanges, vinyl records, and even pieces of art. Since winter is a great time to stay in, keep warm, and work on our indoor hobbies, we thought it'd be fitting to start with our puzzle exchange and board game collection.

Puzzle Exchange

January 29 is National Puzzle Day. One of the great things we offer at our Port Clinton location is the puzzle exchange! Located by our Madison Street entrance, next to the newspapers, you can bring in a puzzle you've already completed and swap it out for something new. A great way to try out new puzzles without going out and buying more. There's always a variety for all ages and skill levels, so whether you're just starting out with puzzles or a novice puzzler, you're sure to find something.

There's no need to stop at the desk, just make the swap and enjoy your new puzzle. We ask that puzzles are left in good condition, with all pieces in a box with a photo of the completed puzzle.

Our Circulation Supervisor Jamie is a big fan of the collection:

One of the puzzles Jamie has completed

I find working on a jigsaw puzzles to be relaxing.  I can play music or a movie I've seen before and just listen while I puzzle away! The puzzle exchange program at the library is great because it provides so many varieties; piece count, age levels, designs.  It's also fun chatting with patrons about puzzles they've completed, asking if they were difficult or would they recommend trying it.   Best puzzle exchange practices: *put puzzle pieces in a sealable storage bag *tape edges of box *notate front of box is any pieces are missing

Board Games

Another way to pass the time in winter is by playing a board game and the library has a collection for checkout. You can find them next to the video games near our check out desk. They can be checked out for 2 weeks on any card, with a limit of two per family. Games aren't able to be placed on hold, but there's always something to choose from when you stop in. They're great if you're looking for something to do every couple weeks or if you need something to occupy your time during a special occasion. We have something for everyone, whether you're looking for a simple game or something more in depth for avid tabletop gamers. Our collection has grown since we've first introduced it and we periodically add more games.

Have you participated in our puzzle exchange or checked out any of our games? We love hearing feedback.