The Chess Club meets in the library’s North Room on the first and third Tuesdays of each month and is open to the public. Registration is not required, and participants are welcome to come and go during the session.

The club is intended for players who have a basic understanding of the game. Organizers ask that participants generally know how the pieces move, as the club is not structured as a teaching program. The minimum recommended age is 7, and children age 8 and younger must be accompanied by a caregiver.

For some players, chess has been part of their lives for years.

Magnus Brekk, 10, said he started playing chess when he was between 4 and 6 years old, though he does not remember the exact age.

Wendy Harper/MDN David Uriel, left, plays a game of chess with Magnus Brekk, 10, during a Chess Club meeting at the Minot Public Library on Tuesday, Jan. 20.

“I play because it’s fun,” Brekk said.

Aven Beach, 9, said he has been playing chess for about a year and a half. He said he first learned the game by playing online but prefers using a real chess board and physical pieces.

“I saw chess and thought it was cool,” Beach said. “I like how the pieces move.”

According to library staff, the program is designed to bring together players of varying experience levels, from those seeking a competitive challenge to others who simply enjoy casual games. Chess has a long history as a strategic board game and is often associated with cognitive development, problem-solving skills and community engagement.

Library staff noted that visitors are welcome to arrive during setup, which typically begins between 5:30 and 5:45 p.m., or to stop in later to observe or play.

For more information about the Chess Club or other programs, community members can contact the Minot Public Library.