Get on the board with City libraries

27 March 2023

The City of Cape Town’s libraries are making all the right moves as chess clubs are revived and a round of tournaments kick off

Chess clubs at the City's libraries are growing once again after the Covid-19 hiatus.

Several libraries have already hosted tournaments this year, while many others are still to take place.

'Chess is often thought of as a sport for brainiacs, but there are benefits for all who play and anyone, regardless of age, can learn. Playing chess exercises both sides of the brain, it improves memory, creativity and concentration, and helps to develop problem-solving skills. Playing chess is a fun and good way to learn how to follow the rules and builds self-confidence,' said Mayoral Committee Member for Community Services and Health, Councillor Patricia van der Ross.

The popular sport has been a fixture at some City libraries for several years.

The Kraaifontein Chess Club was started in 2016 and has about 60 members. It meets at the Kraaifontein Library and collaborates with the Cape Town Chess Academy.

Before Covid-19, the Libraries and Information Services Department hosted an annual mass chess event in Mitchells Plain for regular players and all those interested in the game.

'I want to encourage our patrons to join the chess clubs, if only for fun or to be involved in a sport. For our younger participants it will benefit them at school, while for many of our older folk it has proved to be beneficial in improving memory. Make the right move and get on the board with us,' said Councillor Patricia van der Ross.

Libraries with clubs and upcoming chess events can be found here: https://bit.ly/3Ja9iVH.

Published by:
City of Cape Town, Media Office