Chess club builds connection and community at local libraries

Nick and Skyler face off during a chess club meetup at the local library on Saturday, Nov. 1. The weekly sessions, led by Baden resident José Riveros, welcome players of all ages and skill levels. Contributed photo

By Amanda Modaragamage

When Baden resident José Riveros couldn’t find a local spot to play chess, he decided to establish one himself.

What began as a simple idea has grown into a welcoming community event, with weekly chess meetups at both the Baden and New Hamburg branches of the Region of Waterloo Library. Players gather twice a week in New Hamburg and once a week in Baden to sharpen their skills, learn the game or simply enjoy the challenge of a good match.

Though Riveros loves the game of chess for the strategy, he also says there is an aspect of community and connection that brings people together when they play.

“When you sit in front of another person to play chess, you greet people, talk to them and introduce yourself,” said Riveros. “You get to meet people you may have never met otherwise, all because you have one aspect in common – you love the game.”

The club is open to all ages and skill levels, and Riveros said the goal is to make chess accessible and fun for everyone – from seasoned players to complete beginners.

“I have parents who come to play, and they bring their kids and then go home and teach them because now those kids are interested in the game,” he said. “It’s great to see everyone coming together who likes to play chess.”

After researching potential locations, Riveros connected with the New Hamburg library, which supervisor of programs and outreach Brooke Giles thought would be the perfect space to invite locals to play.

“The chess club exemplifies the Region of Waterloo Library’s mission to connect residents to each other and to the world of ideas by fostering intergenerational engagement and community interaction,” said Giles. “As a drop-in program, it allows for spontaneous participation and encourages attendees to explore other services and programs happening at the library. This blend of recreation and learning enhances our role as a community hub where diverse age groups converge and discover shared interests”

Giles went on to agree that the club has growing momentum throughout the community, and she too is excited to see what’s next for the local chess club.

“From beginners to those who have been playing for years, all are welcome to participate, learn new skills and challenge new opponents,” she said. “Nearly 300 people have attended chess club this year, and momentum continues to grow.”

Riveros has long been involved in community volunteering – serving as a local crossing guard, driving for the Red Cross in Burlington and coaching soccer in Waterloo. His involvement and dedication to the new chess club blend his passion for volunteering with his love of the game.

“It’s not my full-time job, but I like to give to the community when I can,” said Riveros. “Seeing people like chess as much as I do and seeing people committed to coming every session is great.”

Children under nine are welcome to participate with a parent or caregiver present during the program.

Boards are provided on a first-come, first-served basis, though participants are encouraged to bring their own sets if they have them.

To learn more or view upcoming dates, visit the Region of Waterloo Library’s New Hamburg and Baden branch events page at rwlibrary.libnet.info/events or call 519-662-1112.