The presentation below is an introduction to Mahjong at the Library, a library program that aims to bridge generational divides and strengthen communities through the intellectual game of mahjong. Click on the title slide to access (view through SJSU email only). Enjoy!
As someone who loves to play mahjong, I really enjoyed reading through your Innovation Strategy & Roadmap. I recently went to the Asian Art Museum and was thrilled to see they have mahjong events at the museum. I love your idea to bring mahjong to the library as well. It also made me think of libraries that have board games as part of their circulating collection. Mahjong sets available to borrow could be another great addition!
Hi Amanda! Thanks for checking out my presentation. I think having mahjong sets in circulation would be a great idea. My only concern would be the table… if patrons don’t already have the table at home, it might still be a little difficult to play a game of mahjong. I appreciate this suggestion though!
What a coincidence! I just heard a news story about the rising popularity of mahjong and its community-building, although I can’t remember which source it was from now. I really like your idea! It sounds like it would be a successful idea in your community considering it is already popular at the senior center. I like that your program encourages intergenerational socialization as well. An idea you could integrate into your program to encourage cultural learning and library borrowing is to recommend movies and books that include mahjong, like Crazy Rich Asians and Joy Luck Club.
@rzhu I enjoyed looking through your presentation and I love the idea of providing an opportunity for older and younger adults to interact with each other. I found your explanations clear and the plan well laid out, especially the section regarding evaluation. You provide several avenues to gather feedback, and I like your idea of sharing the results with staff members through Google forms and having a meeting to discuss how the program went. This would allow staff members to participate in the evaluation process for the program and provide suggestions. In regards to future expansion, I agree with @amanda, I think it would be a great idea to have Mahjong sets available for patrons to borrow.
@rzhu I really loved your concept! I just played my first game of Mahjong at a community gathering in my town. The hosts are ceramicists, so it was in their shop, but the mother of one the hosts was on hand to help the new folks. It truly bridged all ages/backgrounds. I love this as a community builder and bridge between ages.
Love your ideas for Mahjong at the library! While I don’t know how to play, I have tried learning at my local senior center with my dad who had signed us both up although I am not a senior. Unfortunately, the group was not too welcoming nor were they interested in teaching two newcomers. It wasn’t a good experience. I think if my local library had a program like this we would feel more welcomed to try it out again and hope for a more receptive and welcoming group! Also your project and slides were visually stunning. I really liked the cohesiveness of your project.
@mylifeastori I’m sorry you had a bad experience at your local senior center. When I was designing a smaller version of this program, I made sure to ask one of our senior library volunteers to help newcomers feel welcome and teach them the art of mahjong. I know it’s especially daunting in a room full of experienced players who already know what they’re doing… thank you for the kind comments!
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@isthebel Great idea! Having a display on a nearby shelf for mahjong-related library materials seems totally appropriate for this program. I really enjoyed reading (and watching) mahjong-centered movies such as Crazy Rich Asians and Joy Luck Club. Thanks for this suggestion!
Hello Ruby!
I enjoyed looking through your slides for Mahjong at the library. What a great way to bring different generations together in one place as you mentioned. This not only helps those who may feel isolated but it’s a great way to connect with those in your community you might not otherwise talk to. I would love to join something like this!