Some games are built around a specific storyline, and each time you play, the plot and outcome can vary. With others, the narrative is similar to a sports match, with players vying for victory. In addition to their storytelling elements, many games encourage strategic thinking, decision-making, and problem solving. While having fun, you can build skills that are useful in any context. And although competition can be a fun aspect of many games, some are designed with teamwork in mind. This doesn’t mean you have to lose out on adrenaline—collaborative games like Forbidden Island and Pandemic offer plenty of excitement.

Chillicothe Public Library has almost 50 board games and strategy games and over 75 video games that cardholders can check out. Hosting a game night? Want to add some variety to your family’s established favorites? The library might have just what you’re looking for.

In addition to games you can check out and play at home, the library occasionally offers game-related programs. The upcoming Lucky Family Game Night on March 7th at 6pm offers fun games for the entire family, including board games, chess/checkers, Mario Kart, life-sized Twister, Candy Land, and a library scavenger hunt. If you’re 18 or older, you might enjoy the next Adult Game Night on April 4th, where you can hang out with friends, meet new ones, and play board games (drop in 5–7:30pm). More information about these events can be found at www.chillipld.org or on the library’s Facebook page.

Chillicothe Public Library is located at 430 N. Bradley Ave., Chillicothe, IL 61523, and is open for you M/F 9am–5pm, T/W/Th 9am–8pm, and Sat 9am–4pm.