BELLOWS FALLS – As the weather begins to warm up, the Rockingham Free Public Library is inviting residents to go on an adventure this spring – starting with the library.
The library is launching a new outdoor, immersive experience through the village and history of Bellows Falls called “Bellows Falls in Time.” Part treasure hunt, part history lesson; all one needs to play is a cell phone.
Bellows Falls in Time begins in front of the library by texting “Hello” to a number or scanning a QR code (both available at the library) to begin receiving messages from a person lost in time who needs to visit historical places of the village to remember. who they are and why Bellows Falls is important to them. Participants will have to ring their cell phone, answer their phone (or check messages) and click on the links to find the clues, get directions on where to go and solve the mystery.
“The game was developed with help from the community,” says Sam Howard, youth services librarian. “One aspect of the design that I appreciated was being able to include other organizations like the Historical Society and Rockingham for Progress, as well as other individuals who lent their voices and talents to make the game more interesting. ”
This project is made possible through a program called “Engaging Beyond Our Walls,” with funding and support from the Institute of Museum and Library Services, Playful City Lab, and the American University Game Center. The library now joins a small group of libraries nationwide offering game-based community programming. The goal of this game is to more deeply connect the community to our neighborhoods and our history.
For more information about this program, send an email Youthservices@rockinghamlibrary.orgcall 802-463-4270, go online to rockinghamlibrary.orgor visit the library at 65 Westminster St in Bellows Falls, VT.
