Chess Classes and Programs
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 |
|---|---|
| January 8 to February 12 | Registration is now open |
| April 9 to May 14 | Registration is now open |
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!
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
March 8 - April 12: The Art of the Trade: Strategic Decision Making in Chess by NM Daniel Cremisi
Knowing when to trade—and when not to—is one of the most important skills separating strong players from the rest. In this insightful class, NM Daniel Cremisi breaks down the strategic principles behind exchanges, helping players understand the true value of trades beyond simple material count.
Through real-game examples and practical scenarios, Daniel will explore key questions every player faces:
When does trading simplify a position in your favor?
How do exchanges impact king safety, piece activity, and pawn structure?
What are the hidden strategic goals behind seemingly simple trades?
How can you evaluate whether a trade helps you—or helps your opponent?
Students will learn how to make confident, well-reasoned decisions in critical moments and develop a deeper, more strategic approach to piece exchanges across all phases of the game.
Perfect for: club players, tournament competitors, and anyone looking to elevate their strategic understanding and sharpen their in-game decision-making.
Join us and master the subtle art of the trade!
This class will run for six sessions on the following dates: 3/8, 3/15, 3/22, 3/29, 4/5, 4/12.
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: March 8 - April 12, 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: January 9, February 6, March 6, April 3, May 1
🕔 Time: 5:00–6:00 pm
📍 Where: Onsite 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.
Caclulation Masterclass with GM Sam Shankland
Postponed!
Time & Location:
- Wednesday: 5:30 pm -8:00 pm -- In person at Mechanics' Institute
- Thursday & Friday: 5:30 pm - 7:30 pm -- Online via Zoom.
Sam is back after making the World Cup quarterfinals! Join our Grandmaster-in-Residence and former US Champion Sam Shankland for an exclusive masterclass at the Mechanics' Institute.
Get an inside look at how one of the world’s top players studies and prepares by calculating alongside Sam in demanding, high-level positions. Learn how to apply his insights directly to your own games and take your results to the next level. All positions used in the class are selected by Sam and crafted in collaboration with his coach, the legendary GM Jacob Aagaard.
Rating Requirement:
Players are expected to have a USCF rating of 1500+. Players below this rating may be considered at the staff’s discretion and should email chessroom@milibrary.org for approval.
Fees:
- $300 for Mechanics' Institute Members
- $400 for Non-Members
Registration: Register through Jumbula.
Recordings:
Recordings will be provided for all sessions with an online component.
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.
Site photography by Greg Habiby