We have 264 games in our library. You can, of course, come in and peruse the shelves, playing things that grab your interest in the moment. Did you know we’ve also got the library set up on Board Game Geek? It’s true!

If you’re a data-driven person, you can reorganize that list by average rating, by rank in the entire database of games, by “weight” (how complex they are), and probably other things that I don’t have the brainpower for. You can also find our lists of games we are interested in getting into the library in trade, and soon, games we are looking to trade away to update the library. Even more, you can click on any of those games to find a wealth of information—designer and publisher, mechanics, photos, similar games, rule sets, entire forums for each game where players can ask questions and review the games.

We also treat the library as book librarians would. We ask our guests not to reshelve the games so we can clean and check the pieces, making sure the games are in good shape for the next guests. We keep track of check-outs so we have a general sense of what’s being played and what needs some TLC. We receive some game donations (in good condition) and also keep our retail section up-to-date. We’re constantly thinking about the curation of the library, what y’all might really enjoy playing in our space. Like the community gathering here, the library itself is constantly evolving, like a living thing.

Alice C, board game librarian

Play Mazescape: Labyrinthos

Mazescape: Labyrinthos is a tiny box that packs a wallop! It’s a maze that shifts and changes as you unfold the paper. Need to get to a path on a different part of the map? Just unfold. Need to double-back to pick up a treasure? Re-fold in a different direction. And on top of that, there are 7 different, increasingly-difficult mazes in the box! Mazescape is a spicy and sweet game that can be played solo or with a friend.

Alice C, board game librarian

Drink the new Mr. Green

Mr. Green is one of several new cocktails on the menu, themed around the game Clue. Our spicy margarita is made with jalapeno simple syrup, blue curacao, tequilla, and lime and pineapple juices, garnished with candied jalapenos and Tajin. He’s spicy and refreshing, an excellent compliment to our quesadilla and a round or two of Mazescape. Don’t let him catch you in the conservatory with the lead pipe…this drink hits you back!