Afternoons at Southwest Branch Library are a busy time during the school week. This is especially true every second and fourth Monday of the month when eager students arrive for another session of the Chess Club.

Children ages 6-16 participate in the Chess Club. Some excited players come early to help set-out game boards and chat with fellow chess enthusiasts. Friendly conversation fills the room as everyone gets ready. When Chess Club officially starts and the kids become involved with their games, the meeting room becomes very, very quiet. After fifteen minutes, everyone switches partners for the next round. The group' s level of dedication to playing is very real and inspiring. Parents have commented that the club has helped their children in school with concentration and critical thinking.

The library was able to start this club in the summer of 2012 thanks to several dedicated volunteers.

Community support for this program has been strong since the beginning. Participants come from all around Arlington and other North Texas cities. One family with several children travels from Waxahachie just to participate. There are many reasons for the Chess Club' s popularity. It' s a fun game that offers the chance to meet new friends, play against more enthusiasts, and learn new strategies to play and win.

One boy commented that he loves to come to chess club because he finally was able to beat his dad after participating in the Chess Club for two months.