Chess Classes and Programs
Class Schedule for Adults and Advanced Scholastic Players
Whether you're an adult looking to sharpen your skills or a scholastic player ready to take your game to the next level, we offer a variety of classes designed to challenge and inspire. From structured group lessons to advanced strategy sessions, there's something for every committed learner.
Click the class titles below to open up the detailed class information and find the right fit for your level and goals.
Chess Cafe (Mondays, 4:00-5:30 PM, online)
Welcome to the Chess Café!
Mondays | 4:00 – 5:30 PM (PT) | Online via Zoom | FREE for All
The Chess Café is more than just a chess discussion—it's a relaxed, welcoming space to chat about chess, life, and everything in between. Whether you're a seasoned player or just getting started, you're invited to join a rotating group of chess enthusiasts from across the country in an open, engaging conversation. We cover the latest in the chess world, share stories, ask questions, and simply enjoy the game we all love.
All skill levels are welcome, and there’s no pressure—just good conversation and a great community.
🗓 When: Every Monday (except major holidays)
🕓 Time: 4:00 – 5:30 PM (Pacific Time)
💻 Where: Zoom (register to receive the link)
💸 Cost: FREE
We’d love to have you join the conversation—see you at the Café!
Introduction to Chess (Thursdays, 5:30-6:30 PM, at Mechanics')
Whether you're brand new to chess or looking to strengthen your foundation, this welcoming class is the perfect place to start. Led by Lead Chess Coach Marcie Yang, you'll explore the fundamentals of the Royal Game in a supportive, hands-on environment.
You'll learn everything from the basics—how the pieces move, capture, castle, and the elusive en passant—to essential strategies that will build your confidence and enjoyment of the game. We'll also cover:
- Common checkmating patterns
- How to think in the opening
- Middle-game plans and ideas
- Endgame principles that every player should know
Our goal is to open up a world of fun, challenge, and discovery through the magic and beauty of chess.
Open to all ages and skill levels. Just bring your curiosity—we'll provide the rest!
Class Details:
🗓 Six Thursdays
🕠 Time: 5:30–6:30 PM
📍 Location: Onsite in the Chess Room at Mechanics’
💸 Cost: FREE for Mechanics’ Institute Members
Upcoming Classes
| Class dates | Registration |
|---|---|
| July 9 to August 13 | Registration is now open |
| September 10 to October 15 | Registration is now open |
| November 5 - December 17 (Nov 26 off) | Registration is now open |
Master Classes with WGM Carla Heredia
Time & Location: Saturday, June 27 -- In person at Mechanics' Institute Chess Club
- Class 1: 10 am - 12 pm: The Power of the Initiative: From Classics to the Modern Game
In this interactive lesson, we will explore the initiative—the ability to dictate the pace of the game and keep your opponent on the defensive. Students will gain practical insights they can immediately apply to their own games. We will trace this concept from its classical foundations with Paul Morphy and Wilhelm Steinitz to the dynamic, aggressive styles of Bobby Fischer, Garry Kasparov, and Judit Polgár. Finally, we will analyze modern games from Magnus Carlsen to see how the initiative is handled at the highest level today through subtle, strategic play.
- Class 2: 12:30 pm - 2:30 pm: Bobby Fischer: Games, Ideas, and Genius
In this 2-hour interactive lesson, we will explore the chess legacy of Bobby Fischer, one of the most influential and fascinating players in history. Through a combination of instructive games and memorable anecdotes, students will gain both practical chess insights and a deeper appreciation for Fischer’s unique approach to the game. We will begin with a brief overview of Fischer’s rise to the top, highlighting key moments from his career, including his path to the World Championship and his impact on modern chess.
About WGM Carla Heredia:
Carla Heredia is a Woman Grandmaster (WGM), Pan American Champion, and FIDE World Cup qualifier who has represented Ecuador in multiple Chess Olympiads. As an elite coach with a peak USCF rating of 2298, she has trained hundreds of players ranging from beginners to advanced competitors rated over 2100. Her students include Pan American medalists, national masters, and state champions. Additionally, her bachelor’s degree in psychology uniquely enhances her coaching approach and student development.
Rating Requirement:
Players are expected to have a USCF rating of 1000+. Players below this rating may be considered at the staff’s discretion and should email chessroom@milibrary.org for approval.
Fees:
- $50 for MI members per class
- $60 for Non-Members per class
$25 discount if registering for both use the discount code BOTHCLASSES!
Game Analysis series with NM Daniel Cremisi (Sundays, 6:30-7:30 PM, Online via Zoom)
Class Series with National Master Daniel Cremisi
Join National Master Daniel Cremisi in an interactive class designed specifically for developing players looking to break through common plateaus. Daniel brings years of experience helping under-1600 players gain confidence, sharpen their strategy, and finally convert winning positions into actual wins through a series of classes that focus on different aspects of the game. The first section of every class is going over your games - and the second section of every class focuses on a different theme - check out our upcoming sessions below!
June 21 - August 2: Game Analysis Series: Risk/Reward When You're Ahead
Join us for this upcoming session of NM Daniel Cremisi's popular Game Analysis Series. In addition to Daniel's master analysis of participants' tournament games, we'll examine how to play when you're ahead in this session. We've all been there: up a pawn or two, or up the exchange, but our opponent refuses to roll over and keeps on fighting. You know the eval bar must be in your favor, but how can you press the advantage? Is it worth it to launch an attack, or will you squander the lead you've worked hard to build? Then you push too much and all of a sudden that advantage has evaporated. Join us for this class with one of the strongest players in San Francisco, get your games analyzed by a master, and learn how to make sure you win those games that you know you should!
Perfect for: club players, tournament competitors, and anyone looking to turn those losses into draws and draws into victories!
This class will run for six sessions on the following dates: 6/21, 6/28, No class on 7/5! , 7/12, 7/19, 7/26, and 8/2.
All sessions will be held virtually via Zoom. Class will be recorded and shared with the participants.
Questions? Reach out to us at chessroom@milibrary.org.
Course Details:
🗓 Dates: Jun 21 - Aug 2, Six Sundays, No Class on 7/5
🕕 Time: 6:30–7:30 PM
📍 Location: Online via Zoom -- meeting link will be shared with those who registered and recordings will be shared with participants the following day.
💸 Cost: $120 for Members | $150 for Nonmembers
May 3 - June 7: Swindling and Practical Hope Chess- Why we Usually Don't, but Sometimes Should, and How to do it Best
Join us for this upcoming session of NM Daniel Cremisi's popular Game Analysis Series. In addition to Daniel's master analysis of tournament games from participants, in this session we dive into one of the most satisfying, or frustrating, techniques in chess: swindling. While classical principles teach us to avoid "hope chess" and rely on sound play, we all know that real games are messy and players make mistakes. Time pressure hits, players miss tactics, and suddenly that lost position still has life if you know where to look. So, turn that loss into a draw, squeeze water from the metaphorical stone, and utilize your resources in this upcoming class with NM Daniel Cremisi.
Perfect for: club players, tournament competitors, and anyone looking to turn those losses into draws and draws into victories!
Join us and learn how to play practical hope chess from as Master!
This class will run for six sessions on the following dates: 5/3, 5/10, 5/17, 5/24, 5/31, and 6/7.
All sessions will be held virtually via Zoom. Class will be recorded and shared with the participants.
Questions? Reach out to us at chessroom@milibrary.org.
Course Details:
🗓 Dates: May 3 - June 7, Six Sundays
🕕 Time: 6:30–7:30 PM
📍 Location: Online via Zoom -- meeting link will be shared with those who registered and recordings will be shared with participants the following day.
💸 Cost: $120 for Members | $150 for Nonmembers
Chess Socials (First Fridays, 5:00-6:00 PM, onsite)
Unwind from the week with fellow chess enthusiasts at our monthly Chess Socials. Whether you're a casual player or a serious competitor, this is a great space to meet new people, test your skills, and enjoy a shared love of the game.
We'll have rousing game replays on the big screen, snacks, and lively conversation. Wine will be available for purchase in the Meeting Room before CinemaLit at 6:00 pm—feel free to stick around for the film!
Details:
🗓 When: First Friday of every month
Upcoming dates: June 5, July 10, Aug 7, Sep 11, Oct 2, Nov 6, Dec 4
🕔 Time: 5:00–6:00 pm
📍 Where: On-site, in the Chess Room
💸 Cost: Free – just show up, no registration needed
♟ What we provide: Boards, sets, and clocks – everything you need!
Come connect with other players, make new friends, network, and play a few games in a fun, low-pressure environment.
Any questions? Email us at chessroom@milibrary.org.
Sunday FREE Women's Online Chess Class (Sundays, 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM, online)
Join Our Free Online Chess Class for Women and Girls!
Every Sunday | 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM (Noon) | On Zoom
We invite women and girls of all ages to be part of a supportive and empowering chess community! This free weekly class is led by FIDE Trainer Sophie Adams and is designed for players who already know the basics (piece movements and checkmates) and are looking to improve their skills.
Special Guests in the Fall:
- Sept 7 - WGM Sabina Foisor
- Oct 12 - WGM Jennifer Shahade
- December 14th - WIM Megan Lee
What to Expect:
- Expert Coaching from a certified FIDE Trainer
- Community-Focused Learning with other women and girls
- Optional Online Play on platforms like Chess.com
- Interactive Sessions on Zoom (link provided after registration)
🗓 When: Every Sunday
🕓 Time: 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM (Pacific Time)
💻 Where: Zoom (register to receive the link)
💸 Cost: FREE
Join our Women’s Club on Chess.com:
https://www.chess.com/club/mechanics-institute-womens-club
Please request to join with your full name, or send us your Chess.com username and we’ll invite you directly.
Site photography by Greg Habiby