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Escape Rooms and Libraries: Puzzles & Clues

This guide will help librarians create escape rooms at their institutes.

What to consider...

Preparation is key! 

Ask yourself:

What are your learning goals?

What physical things do participants need to do to show they have met the learning goals? 

Possible Clues/Puzzles

  • Locks
  • Jigsaw puzzle
  • Block puzzle
  • False books
  • USBs
  • Password protected PDF
  • Fill in the blank
  • Code and cypher
  • Broken clock
  • QR codes
  • Paper w/ hole
  • Real books
  • Invisible ink
  • Math/equations
  • Magnets
  • Maps
  • Riddles
  • Video
  • Mirror
  • Websites
  • Crossword puzzle
  • Sudoku

Check these out!

Other Sources for Props

  • Hardware stores like Home Depot sell chains, padlocks, and other items that could be used in an escape room.
  • Electronics stores like Best Buy sell laptop locks and bags that could be repurposed.
  • Check thrift stores for old games and unique antiques to add flair to your room.
  • Craft stores sell blacklight markers, paint, and wax seals.

 

How does this work?

Write out the physical things students need to do to show they have mastered the learning goals, then pair those with clues and puzzles.

Example

Learning Goal: Students know they can find information about the library on the library website.

Physical Act: Students use the library website to look up library policies.

Clue/Puzzle: Students find a set of questions about library policies, and a sheet of paper with four sets of fill-in-the-blank. Only the right answers will fit in the spots. In each answer there is a square around a particular letter. When the four correct letters are found they are the combination to a lock.