Beginner’s Chess Books

Chess players like to brag about their chess libraries. And libraries aren’t tough to build — more books have been written about chess than any other game. Hundreds of books are worth recommending, but it’s best to start out modestly and purchase (or borrow) only what you need.

Comprehensive Chess Course

If you have the time and money, the multivolume Comprehensive Chess Course by Grandmaster Lev Alburt (published by the Chess Information and Research Center) has my highest recommendation. The first couple of volumes are for the absolute beginner, but some of the later ones are full of information even masters will find useful.

Official Rules of Chess, Fifth Edition

The official book of the United States Chess Federation is edited by Tim Just and Daniel B. Burg. Published by McKay Chess, this indispensable guide allows you to win all the arguments about rules that you’re bound to have. It also includes a complete set of international rules.

The Oxford Companion to Chess, Second Edition

The second edition of The Oxford Companion to Chess is written by David Hooper and Kenneth Whyld and published by Oxford University Press. It includes everything from A to Z about chess — and is the handiest singlesource reference book around.

The Even More Complete Chess Addict

Written by Michael Fox and Richard James and published by Faber and Faber, The Even More Complete Chess Addict is the chess trivia book to get. The authors are witty and thorough in digging up gems — such as the man who was British Ladies Champion. A must have.

Serious chess players tend to buy lots of books, but everybody needs a chess set and board. In tournaments, you can use inexpensive plastic sets as long as they’re of the Staunton design, but the more you play, the more you’ll appreciate the look and feel of wooden ones. If you want to play in tournaments, you should also buy a chess clock, because clocks are required in official competitions. Both analog and digital chess clocks are available, but the digital ones have become the standard. The following resources have large inventories and reliable service.

The Chess Cafe

The United States Chess Federation has outsourced its book and equipment business to the Chess Cafe. You can find equipment (sets and clocks) and a large assortment of books on their Web site: www.chesscafe.com. This site also offers great articles and instruction.

Your Move Chess and games

Your Move Chess and Games is touted as “America’s largest chess store” and the country’s premier chess mail-order company. Check out their inventory online at www.chessusa.com.

One of the best things about the Internet for a chess enthusiast is the sheer number of quality Web sites dedicated to some aspect of the game. Following is a list of chess sites that I visit on a regular basis or especially admire. However, the Web is designed to be surfed, so don’t limit yourself to what you see here. Also, because the Internet changes on a daily basis, I recommend that you develop your own favorites list and keep exploring every now and then to see if any new sites have cropped up.

If you get the chance, you can visit a number of places of special interest to chess lovers. You’ll find a rich atmosphere and historic photos, as well as people who share your interest in the game

Marshall Chess Club

Located in New York, the Marshall Chess Club has a rich tradition and plenty of action, from offhand blitz games to serious tournaments. Although anyone can visit, you have to be a member in order to play in its events. The club is located at 23 W. 10th St., New York, NY 10011. Also check out its Web site at www.marshallchessclub.org

Mechanics’ Institute Chess Room

Located on the fourth floor at 57 Post Street in San Francisco and founded in 1854, the Mechanics’ Institute Chess Room is the oldest chess club in continuous existence. Anyone can visit, but you have to be a member to participate in its events. Contact the club visit the Web site at www.chessclub.org.

The John G. White Collection

Located on the third floor of the Cleveland, Ohio, main library at 125 Superior Avenue, the John G. White Collection is the chess world’s largest research and reference library. It includes some of the rarest books and materials available in the United States. The main library’s Web site is www.cpl.org

World Chess Hall of Fame & Sidney Samole Chess Museum

The World Chess Hall of Fame & Sidney Samole Chess Museum, at 13755 S.W. 119th Avenue in Miami, is dedicated to telling the stories of the greatest players in history. It also has some wonderfully rare material — my favorite one being the original edition of the tournament book from the first true international competition in 1851! You can also find out about upcoming events at the museum and other pertinent info at www.uschesshalloffame.com