Rare Books Puzzle Challenge: An Escape Room

Come out and solve a puzzling "escape room"! The Riesenfeld Rare Books Center is hosting an "escape room" for law students, as single competitors or in teams of two. Laptops are necessary, but no knowledge of rare books or foreign languages is needed. Just sharp minds and eyes for clues.   

Compete against your friends: see how fast you can solve the puzzle and win. The fastest-timed "escapee" wins $30 ($60 for a team) in Law School swag at the bookstore.

The puzzle takes about 15 min., or a little less or more. The competition is open through April 15, 2022. Please contact the Center to set up a convenient time during the week, between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m.

The puzzle scenario is below:

"Renowned UMN history professor, Roberta Langton, was until recently doing secretive research in the rare books collection. The research was rumored to be funded by a wealthy and shadowy group named the Guardians.

Two weeks ago, Professor Langton disappeared, leaving few traces. Police have been unable to locate her. UMN alumni and entrepreneurs Elenora and Edmund Andersen have offered a $1 million reward for information that aids in finding her.

You have been granted brief access to Professor Langton’s research at the Riesenfeld Center, left undisturbed since her disappearance. You have a hunch that it holds important clues to her whereabouts. If you find the right clues, you can understand her project, meet with her, and claim a reward."

Good luck!