by Anessa Olson

We all know that playing is important for children’s development, but play is also important for adult’s mental health and well-being.  Regular play allows adults to relax, connect with friends and family, and improve creative thinking and problem-solving skills.  Play has been linked to having a better mood, increased productivity, and healthier relationships.[1] 

Play is any activity you do only because you enjoy it, that brings with it an in-the-moment attitude and allows you to engage deeply either with the activity itself or with the people playing with you.  It can take many forms and involve a wide range of activities.  The most important thing is that you have fun. 

The Ames Public Library has a lot of options available for adults looking to play and have fun.  On the third Wednesday of every month, at 6:30pm, you can join us for a board game night. The library has a wide variety of games to choose from, making it an excellent opportunity to try out new games and meet new friends.  Everyone 18 or older is welcome.

If board games aren’t exactly your speed, the library also has video games available for checkout.  We have games available for PS3, PS4, PS5, Xbox 360, Xbox One, Xbox X, Wii, and Wii U. Whether you want to play Anthem or Zoo Tycoon, the library has you covered. 

The library also has tabletop gaming kits, each containing the materials necessary to try out a variety of tabletop gaming systems.  You and your friends can be stalwart companions on a fantasy adventure with Dungeons and Dragons, be brave, bold superheroes with Masks, or even bloodthirsty monsters with Vampire: The Masquerade. 

However you want to play, the library has books to help you.  We have books about everything from hiking to pickleball to chess.  In addition to books about games, we also have books on a wide range of hobbies, such as crochet, fly tying, and gardening. And of course, we also have an extensive selection of fiction if your idea of playing is kicking back with a good book.  However you do it, just remember to have fun!
 

[1] Van Vleet, Meredith et al. “The importance of having fun: Daily play among adults with type 1 diabetes.” Journal of social and personal relationships vol. 36,11-12 (2019): 3695-3710. doi:10.1177/0265407519832115