Did you know a jigsaw puzzle library near you is a place to trade puzzles for free?
There’s something magical about a local jigsaw puzzle library. There are these jigsaw puzzle boxes, all over the country, where puzzle lovers swap, share, and connect through the joy of jigsaw puzzles. Yes, a free jigsaw puzzle can be yours if you consider trading puzzles at these different locations. It’s perfect for finding practice jigsaw puzzles for puzzle competitions or to enjoy a new jigsaw puzzle to play at your leisure.
A Little Library for a Lot of Jigsaw Puzzles
Whether it’s a dedicated puzzle swap shelf at your local library, a small neighborhood puzzle exchange box, or a community center’s puzzle-sharing program, puzzle trading with strangers is a fantastic way to enjoy more puzzles without spending a fortune. Yes, you are right, it’s a free jigsaw puzzle connects. I think it could be called delightful as it’s puzzle trading with local strangers (who love jigsaw puzzles too.)
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I’ve been using my local puzzle library for years. Every few months, I drop off puzzles I’ve completed, especially after I’ve already donated to schools and libraries and still have jigsaw puzzles to share. I love the idea that my puzzles will go on to bring joy to someone else. But I’ve also learned a few things along the way and I want to share how you can experience this in a positive way too.
Personally, the small touches that make this experience, dropping off and picking up jigsaw puzzles at a jigsaw puzzle library, make it even more meaningful. Of course, if you are respectful and keep sharing your puzzles, you will find that the puzzle trading at the jigsaw puzzle library will offer fruitful results.
So what can you do to have great results at a jigsaw puzzle library? Here are my 7 tips for finding wonderful jigsaw puzzles at these boxes:
1. Give and Take Fairly
Puzzle trading is based on the honor system, meaning there are no official rules or enforcers – just mutual respect among puzzlers. If you take a puzzle, it’s good practice to leave one in return of similar quality. I know it’s easy to think nobody is looking (and I assume that’s true), but in the big picture it’s always good to do the right thing. Yes, it’s full of free jigsaw puzzles, but if you take them all, it ruins this opportunity for others.
Think About it: The jigsaw puzzle library stays balanced for everyone if we all come together. For the most part, puzzle enthusiasts will be sharing puzzles so it’s a wonderful idea that shouldn’t be messed up for personal gain.
2. Only Trade Complete Puzzles (No Missing Pieces!)
Few things are more frustrating than finishing a puzzle and realizing a piece is missing. It might seem harmless to drop off a puzzle with one or two missing pieces at a jigsaw puzzle library, but for many puzzle enthusiasts (myself included), it ruins the entire experience.
Better Solution: If your puzzle is incomplete, don’t leave it in the library. Honestly, this is my biggest pet peeve and I show little mercy when it comes to being passed a missing pieces puzzle, as it’s so unfair! I give my complete jigsaw puzzle and expect the same. I know it’s tough to throw out puzzles that aren’t complete and you might find friends who don’t mind, but don’t pass it on to an unsuspecting puzzler.
3. Keep Puzzle Boxes in Good Condition
A jigsaw puzzle’s box is its first impression, and a damaged or falling-apart box can make even a great puzzle look unappealing. You know it only takes a minute to tape the box (so no pieces fall out) and wipe off the dust to make it appealing to others.
Before donating your jigsaw puzzles, check for:
- Torn or broken edges (use tape if necessary).
- A secure box that closes properly.
- No loose or missing pieces inside.
- Put the pieces in a plastic bag (if the box is damaged and you are worried)
A little care goes a long way in keeping the jigsaw puzzle library inviting and functional. There is no better way to show that you care than by taking a second to make the jigsaw puzzles look good in the jigsaw puzzle library.
4. Label Box If Needed (Especially for Unique Puzzles)
Sometimes puzzle boxes don’t list the exact piece count, might have missing instructions (and you know where to look online) or may be part of a special edition. If you’re trading a vintage, wooden, or custom puzzle, consider adding a small note inside the box explaining its piece count, difficulty level, or any unique details. It takes a minute, but it’s worth it when you share.
Example Label: “This is a 750-piece puzzle (I’ve counted the pieces too) It’s super fun and challenging – enjoy!”
Example Label: “This is from the MET, I love this puzzle so much! The box illustration is worn, but you can see the whole image at this URL:
A simple note can help the next puzzler decide if it’s the right fit for them.
5. Try a Fun Jigsaw Puzzle
One of the most exciting parts of puzzle trading is taking a puzzle you wouldn’t normally buy. Instead of always choosing landscapes or cityscapes. While what might be in the box is random to you, there is no reason why not try:
- A puzzle with a quirky theme (animals, abstract art, or pop culture references)
- A different cut or style (random-cut pieces, large-piece formats, or wooden puzzles)
- A global or vintage puzzle you’ve never seen before
- A puzzle piece count bigger than ever played before.
Exploring different styles keeps puzzling fresh and fun! And I love the challenge.
6. Don’t Hoard Puzzles
It can be tempting to grab several puzzles at once, especially when you find a bunch of exciting ones in the swap library. But remember, this is a shared space, and taking too many puzzles at once reduces choices for others.
Friendly Approach: Take one puzzle at a time and return it when you’re done. Or only take as many as you give! That way, everyone gets a chance to enjoy the swap and you are playing fair.
7. Check the Puzzle Library During Different Days of the Week
At the Jigsaw puzzle library near me, I find the most jigsaw puzzles that interest me are left on Sunday. I typically drop off puzzles at the box on the way home from grabbing my groceries for the week. Of course, I’ve checked it on the weekends and Saturday as well, each offering different results. Seeing a pattern, I find the best puzzle trading on Sunday afternoon. Whether that is because people are cleaning on the weekend or have time to drop off puzzles, I don’t know, but it’s garnered me some great puzzles to solve.
BONUS TIP: Leave a Handwritten Note in the Puzzle Box
One of my favorite things to do when I donate a puzzle is to leave a personal note inside the box. It’s a small but meaningful way to connect with the next puzzler who chooses my puzzle.
What I Write in My Notes:
“Hello, my puzzle friend! This puzzle was such a joy to complete, especially the tricky sky section. I hope you love it as much as I did! Have fun and happy puzzling!”
I’ve even had the wonderful surprise of finding notes left by others in return, which makes the whole experience even more rewarding. It turns a simple puzzle trade into a shared experience. It’s so lovely to get a note, it really does make my day.
Why Jigsaw Puzzle Trading Is So Special
Participating in a jigsaw puzzle library isn’t just about getting free puzzles (yes, it is cool). It’s about creating a community of puzzlers who share, connect, and respect one another’s contributions.
By following these tips – giving fairly, trading complete puzzles, keeping boxes in good shape, and adding a personal touch – you help ensure that everyone who visits the jigsaw puzzle library has a wonderful experience.
And next time you leave a puzzle behind at a jigsaw puzzle library, consider slipping in a little note. You never know whose day you might brighten with a simple message of joy and encouragement! Yes, that someone might be ME!
