Gather a team of fellow detectives and head to the Stanley A. Milner Library for Locked Library: The Book Case - an evening of exploring, sleuthing, and puzzle solving.
Finish fast for the glory, or take your time and immerse yourself in a story inspired by classic detective novels.
All proceeds from Locked Library are reinvested into Library programs, collections and services
Event Details
Date: Saturday, July 25, 2026
Time: 7:30 – 10 p.m.
Location: Stanley A. Milner Library
Early bird price: $30 per person until June 30
Regular price: $40 per person starting July 1
Frequently Asked Questions
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What is Locked Library?
Locked Library is an immersive, after-hours escape room event at the Stanley A. Milner Library. You and your team must solve an elaborate series of puzzles before time runs out to crack the case and win the game!
What should I expect from Locked Library?
Participants will have two hours to solve four complex puzzles. These puzzles involve multimedia elements and will be spread across four levels of Stanley A. Milner Library. To “win” the game, you must solve all four puzzles before time runs out.
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Where can I purchase tickets?
Tickets for this event are sold out, but if you want to be notified about future Locked Library events, you can join our mailing list.
Does each participant need a ticket?
Yes, EPL requires one ticket per person attending the event. We recommend registering as a team, and for the most engaging experience, teams should have between two and four players.
Do I need my ticket to attend the event?
Yes, all participants will need to have a copy of their ticket.
What if I need a refund?
Unfortunately, we are unable to provide refunds for this event.
Are my tickets transferrable?
Tickets can be transferred if you are unable to attend, but EPL must be informed ahead of time to streamline registration. Requests to transfer tickets must be made to give@epl.ca by 11:59 p.m. on Friday, July 10, 2026.
What time does it start?
The doors will open and registration will begin at 7:15 p.m. The game will start at 8 p.m. As this is a sold-out event, we strongly encourage participants to arrive early to ensure they are registered and ready to play by 8 p.m.
What happens if I’m late?
If you and your team arrive after 8 p.m., you are still welcome to play. You will need to enter the Library via the South Entrance (101A Ave and 100 St, near the Westin). Please note, all teams will have a recorded start time of 8:00 p.m., regardless of arrival time.
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Where can I park?
If you plan on driving to the event, please allow extra time for parking as Taste of Edmonton will be happening in Churchill Square that evening. The closest option is the Library Parkade, below the Library/Citadel Theatre, with direct access into Milner Library on Level P2. Please note this entrance will only be unlocked from 7:15 p.m. to 8 p.m. Other downtown underground and surface lots are also available. We recommend checking the City of Edmonton Parking Map in advance for hours and rates.
Can I take transit?
EPL strongly encourages Locked Library participants to take transit for this event. Stanley A. Milner is located steps away from Churchill LRT Station (Valley Line and Capital Line), as well as several major bus routes.
How do I enter the Milner Library after hours?
The main entrance of Milner will not be used for this event. Instead, participants may use the South Entrance (101A Ave and 100 St., near the Westin), or the parkade entrance on P2 of the Library Parkade. Please note: the parkade entrance will only be available from 7:15 p.m. to 8 p.m. After 8 p.m., all participants must enter through the South Entrance.
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Do I need to bring anything to complete the game?
Every team will need to have at least one smartphone or tablet to complete the puzzles. Everything else you need is included in the game package your team receives when they check in.
Someone on my team has accessibility needs – will they still be able to play?
Locked Library is an event for EVERYONE – just like the Library is a space for everyone! Please email give@epl.ca with your accessibility concerns.
Does everyone “escape” the Locked Library?
No… and that’s what makes this so exciting! This game is designed to challenge puzzle-solvers. Usually, only half of participants complete the game. Will you and your team succeed and become part of this exclusive group? There’s only one way to find out!
What if the game is too hard?
There will be hint stations throughout the event if you and your team get stuck and need some guidance!
How do I register my team?
Once we have scanned your tickets, it will be time for your team to pick up your gameplay envelope. Envelopes will be organized alphabetically by the last name of the team member who purchased tickets. If you purchased tickets separately, please let the registration desk know and we can look up your information.
Can kids play?
Locked Library is recommended for ages 12+, as some of the puzzles and clues will be challenging for younger guests. That said, the event is designed to be family-friendly! Younger participants can enjoy searching for clues, exploring the space, and helping the team solve puzzles.
Will there be food and drink available?
Second Cup, located in the atrium of Stanley A. Milner, will be open for the duration of the event.
Can I bring my own food or drinks?
You can bring your own food and non-alcoholic beverages to this event, but please be respectful of the Library and its materials, furnishings, and equipment. Absolutely no alcoholic beverages can be consumed on the premises.
Will there be a winner?
Teams “win” the escape room by completing the game within the two-hour time frame. We will be keeping track of how long each team takes to complete the game – the timer will begin at 8 p.m. After you have “escaped,” you can secure your bragging rights by taking a photo with your team that documents your time.
Is there a prize?
The team who completes the game the fastest will receive a small token to commemorate their success!
Will there be other activities?
There will also be a mini-game, put on by our sponsor the University of Alberta, which will available for guests to play in addition to the main puzzle.
Can I take photos?
We would love for you to take photos of the event, and we would love to see them! Please feel free to tag us in your posts by using #eplLockedLibrary
This event is now sold out!
Thank you for the incredible interest in Locked Library. Tickets for the July 25 event are no longer available.
Want to be the first to know about the next one? Our next Locked Library event takes place on October 24.
Please submit the form below and we’ll notify you when tickets go on sale.
