Mahjong madness

HURON — This summer, Mondays have turned into mahjong madness at the Huron Public Library. The tile-based game — developed in China during the 19th century — emerged as one of the institution's most popular weekly programs. It involves players making hands with their tiles based on designated patterns shown on the given play card. It compares to the thinking patterns of bridge, a card game. During these free late-morning sessions, known as Mahjong Mondays, about 20 locals gather to play the popular game. Before the summer, a handful of people occasionally met for play in a downstairs library conference room. But, this summer, they relocated, now competing in a central common area right beside the library's primary entrance. "We did that so we can promote ourselves," said Robin Shrilla, a Huron resident who helps coordinate this activity. "People can just show up, they can learn quickly and begin to play. It's addicting." This game syncs up with one of the library's missions, fostering community connection, according to Rebekah Hire-Santoro. She's the library's head of marketing and emerging technology. "We offer a space for our patrons to come together to congregate, relax and connect over many things, like a game of mahjong, as well as the many other programs we offer," Hire-Santoro said. "Another reason why our programs are so important is that they allow for lifelong learning," she said. "Libraries are an incredible resource for expanding your mind, and if you can do so while gathering with your community, that's all the better." Several players noted how mahjong helps stimulate the brain. "We're very thoughtful about the programming that we provide for our community and its needs, and mahjong is great for encouraging our patrons to discover, inspire and connect with each other," Hire-Santoro said. Anyone can show up to play without needing to register beforehand. Sessions take place at 11:30 a.m. on Mondays at the library, 333 Williams St. Beginners are welcome. Due to its popularity, mahjong sessions will continue beyond the original summer session through, at least, fall. "It's like learning a foreign language: The more you practice, the easier it gets, the more sense it makes, and you will want to keep playing," Shrilla said. "My hope is that this will happen every week," she added. "Three years ago, we couldn't find players, and now it's grown into something special as our community comes together and people meet one another." Want to go? What: Mahjong Mondays, a day in which people can play mahjong at no cost Where: Huron Public Library, 333 Williams St. When: Sessions begin at 11:30 a.m. Monday Who: Anyone can play regardless of skill level.