American Mahjong - Instruction

Central Library is hosting an introductory class on American mahjong on Thursday, November 12, from 2 PM to 4 PM. It's a two-hour session designed for seniors and adults, so if you've never touched a tile before, you're in the right place. The library notes that the game has been growing in popularity across the country, and this is a good way to get in on it without having to figure it out on your own.

For those who aren't familiar, American mahjong is a tile-based game, and this class is built around learning the ropes from the ground up. You'll spend the afternoon walking through the basics—how the tiles work, how to build a hand, and the general flow of a round—so you can actually sit down and play with others afterward. It's a social game by nature, and that's a big part of the appeal.

The class takes place at the Central Library, the hub of the Indianapolis Public Library system. The original 1917 building was designed by Paul Cret and built of Indiana limestone in the Greek Doric style, and it's widely considered one of the most outstanding secular buildings in the United States. A six-story glass and steel-framed addition by Evans Woollen opened in 2007, so the library combines that classic limestone exterior with a lot of modern space inside.

Registration is required for the class, so you'll want to sign up ahead of time to save your spot. If you're not looking for a full lesson but still want to play, walk-ins are welcome for open play. The session runs from 2 PM to 4 PM on Thursday, November 12, at the Central Library, 40 East Saint Clair Street.