Summer Library Closure Party Returns: Players Enjoy an Immersive Puzzle-Solving Night at NCKU Library-國立成功大學永續發展SDGs

The highly acclaimed "Summer Closure Party at the Main Library" returned on the evening of September 6. This year, 19 teams comprising 70 participants, aged from 7 to 51, competed enthusiastically, successfully completing challenges within the allotted time. Many players reported that while the puzzle-solving process was mentally taxing, it was also very rewarding. For the freshmen, the game provided a fun way to get to know the library, while familiar players and alumni also gained valuable insights from the event.


Following the positive response to last year’s inaugural event during the library's summer closure, the National Cheng Kung University Library held the "2024 Summer Closure Party: NCKU Library's Future Index Reality Game" on September 6, coinciding with the completion of renovations on the library's first floor in April. With adjusted and newly added game challenges, the library transformed into a game venue, allowing players to enjoy the thrill of solving puzzles and explore the various aspects of the library environment and services.


The event featured 19 teams, with team names reflecting creativity and fun, such as "Orchid Island Day Trip," "Monday Night," "Space Onion Team," "NCKU Gang," "3.14159," "The Name Engraved in Your Mind," "Aiyu Pineapple Cake," "Passerby Hero," "It'z Time To Eat, Poor Postgraduates," and "Extended Graduation."


Participants reported learning about the event mainly through the library's Facebook page, Instagram, newsletters, and event posters. The teams comprised faculty, staff, family members, and alumni, with the youngest participant being 7 and the oldest 51. Most teams were composed of students, including a group called "Little Qiu's Friends," formed by recent graduates who returned to reminisce about their university library experience.


Notably, the teams "The Name Engraved in Your Mind," "Physical Therapy 117," and the spontaneously formed "Tainan First Senior High School Class of 113"—composed of freshmen—finished among the top three fastest teams. Players expressed that as first-year students, exploring the library in this interactive way allowed them to meet new classmates and learn how to search for collections, locate journal shelf numbers, and borrow books, making the experience worthwhile.


Participants voiced satisfaction with the event, finding it a fun way to learn about the library. Although some challenges were difficult, the puzzle-solving process was highly enjoyable, providing a sense of accomplishment. Frequent library users mentioned discovering previously unnoticed corners of the library as a pleasant surprise. Many players also expressed gratitude to the "Little Angels" team of librarians and student assistants, who provided timely assistance when participants encountered difficulties, ensuring a smooth progression through the challenges. Everyone left with beautiful memories on that last Friday night before the new semester began.


The "Future Index" is an exclusive reality game at NCKU Library, characterized by its immersive, self-directed, and game-like approach to library navigation, fostering a strong connection between players and the library. The game kit is available for borrowing during regular hours, and groups of 2 to 6 are welcome to experience it at the library's first-floor service desk.