How do i get a reliable headcount for a casual library board game afternoon?

[StellaA]

I’m trying to organize a casual board game afternoon at the local library for people in our neighborhood, but I’m worried no one will actually show up. How do you get a reliable headcount for something like this without it feeling like a big commitment?

[PaulFA]

I tried something like this once at a different branch of the library. Kept it casual: a clipboard with name and a rough two‑hour window, no signups, just drop‑in. It felt low pressure, and we ended up with about four or five by mid‑afternoon. The vibe mattered more than any actual headcount.

[EricHG]

I also tried a Facebook event. People clicked interested, a few clicked going, but the real turnout was tiny—maybe two or three. It was a reminder that digital RSVPs rarely map to real people in our neighborhood.

[Alexander91]

I wonder if the timing is the real bottleneck. After school, weekends, or a short lunch‑hour thing might click better. We did a 3 to 5 window and it fell flat; maybe rotating a couple of quick games could help, but we didn't chase it far.

[Violet.G]

Do you think the problem is turnout or the format?