Name Your Game

The library has board games? Yes, we do! When was the last time you played a "retro game," one that doesn't require a computer, a TV, a game console, or even electric? You know, games you may have played while growing up, like Checkers, Chess, Monopoly, Life, Chutes and Ladders, Candy Land, Battleship, Yahtzee, Sorry, etc. Am I ringing any bells? Maybe some of us have good childhood memories playing those games with our siblings or the whole family together.

Sure, video games (which can also be checked out from the library) are fun and popular today among kids and kids at heart, but there are a lot of good things about board games:

• Unplugging.  Take a break from your phone and other electronic devices. The only thing that should be plugged in is a lamp.
• Togetherness.  Board games require a minimum of 2 people to play, unlike many video games which only need 1 player. Board games give us a good excuse to spend time with friends and family.
• Socializing.  Being together allows us to talk, something that's especially good for kids who can boost their language skills in a non-academic, informal setting.
• Focusing.  The Internet is great for so many things, but lengthening our attention span isn't one of them. Board games force us to focus and think.
• Soothing.  When we're focusing on the game, we forget about work, school, and other things. We relax and feel less anxious.
• Losing.  No one likes losing, but board games teach all of us how to be good losers. We all lose and are disappointed at one time or another, but we also relish working towards a win and succeeding.
• Fun!  Board games are just plain fun, and so many of us get caught up in the stresses of life that we often forget how to just let go. Playtime is important not just for kids, but for teens and adults as well.

So come on over to the library, and besides checking out books, DVDs, and whatnot, check out a board game! We got the classic games you know and newer ones you may not. Perhaps start a game night once a week with your family, or give yourself and your friends something to do on the weekends as the weather gets cooler. And did I mention that board games, as everything else in our library, check out for free??

Wishing you happy board gaming from the perch.