Getting Started
Shelf lets you catalogue your board game collection, track what you own and want, and plan game nights with friends.
Build Your Library
Add games by searching BoardGameGeek, scanning a barcode, or entering details manually.
Scan Barcodes
Point the camera at a game box barcode and Shelf looks it up automatically.
Game Night
Browse your collection by player count, play time, or complexity to pick the right game.
Wishlist
Save games you want to track them separately from your owned collection.
Reminders
Set notifications to remind yourself and friends about upcoming game nights.
Export
Export your full library as a file to back it up or share with friends.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I add a game to my library?
Tap the + button on the Library tab. You can search by title on BoardGameGeek (which pulls in full game details automatically), scan the barcode on the back of the box, or enter game details manually.
Why does Shelf need camera access?
Camera access is used for two things: scanning barcodes on game boxes to look up games automatically, and photographing box covers when adding a game manually. You can deny camera access and still use all other features.
Why does Shelf need photo library access?
Photo library access is optional and only used when you choose to set a custom cover image for a manually-added game by selecting a photo from your library.
Is my library backed up?
Your library is stored locally on your device. Use the Export feature to save a backup file to your Files app or share it. Restoring from a backup requires importing that file on the same or a new device.
The barcode scan didn't find my game. What should I do?
Not all game barcodes are indexed on BoardGameGeek. Try searching by the game's title instead, or add it manually using the Manual tab in the Add Game sheet.
How do I delete a game from my library?
Swipe left on any game in the Library or Wishlist to reveal the Delete option, or open the game detail and use the menu in the top-right corner.
Can I use Shelf on multiple devices?
Currently, Shelf stores your library locally on each device. To transfer your library, export it on one device and import the file on another.
Does Shelf work offline?
Your existing library is fully available offline. Searching BoardGameGeek and barcode lookups require an internet connection.
Contact Support
Have a question not answered here, found a bug, or want to share feedback? We'd love to hear from you.
Email SupportWe aim to respond within 2 business days.