EVERETT — Generous jigsaw fanatics continue to flood the Everett Library with an abundance of puzzles. In the pursuit of recreation and connection, library leadership has turned the “spoils” over to the community. About 150 puzzles are up for grabs at the Main Library while about 25 are available at the Evergreen Way Branch. Selection and quantity fluctuate because, as one library employee put it, “puzzles come and go”. Those interested can freely take or leave puzzles without checking them out. All library staff ask is that donated puzzles are complete and in good condition so others may fully enjoy them.
“The idea came from seeing other libraries offer similar exchanges, along with a very relatable problem experienced by some of our puzzle-loving staff: once you’ve completed a puzzle, they can start to accumulate pretty quickly, and it can be hard to know what to do with them. A puzzle exchange gives those puzzles another life while giving someone else something new to enjoy,” Library Director Abigail Cooley said. Everett Library’s main branch also hosts quarterly challenges wherein teams of up to five individuals race to put together identical, 500-piece puzzles. The Fall Challenge will be held Oct. 22, and you can learn more or register to participate here.
Like other puzzles, the practice of thinking about and completing jigsaw puzzles promotes neural activity useful for maintaining one’s brain health. Studies show that in preschool-age children, this stimulates cognitive development, rewards patience and promotes problem-solving habits. In older adults, studies suggest beneficial stimulation of visuospatial cognition and calming psychological outcomes. Regardless of age or function, puzzles offer a way to slow down and focus on a simple, meditative task.
“Puzzles offer a fun, low-pressure way to exercise problem-solving skills, relax, and spend time with others. The exchange also gives completed puzzles another life and provides an easy way for community members to pass along something they’ve enjoyed. Libraries are certainly about literacy and access to information, but they’re also community spaces where people can discover things, share resources, and find something enjoyable to do,” Cooley said.
The Everett Public Libraries are open Tuesday-Saturday. The main branch is located at 2702 Hoyt Ave. and the Evergreen Branch is located at 9512 Evergreen Way. Hours can be found on their website here.