The Sinking City 2 Guide | Library Annex Bookcase Puzzle

To solve the Library Annex Bookcase Puzzle in The Sinking City 2, you need to operate two cranks in the correct sequence: use the first crank, reach the second crank after the enemy encounter, then return to the first crank and use it again.

This opens the path to the Restricted Section.

Where to Find the Library Annex Bookcase Puzzle

The Library Annex Bookcase Puzzle takes place on the second floor of the Library Annex during Chapter 2: The Wake-Up Call.

After entering the Annex, explore the first floor and look for a collapsed section that allows you to climb up to the library area. Once you're on the upper floor, continue forward until a group of bookcases blocks your path.

Look for the first crank on the wall near the bookcases. This mechanism controls the position of the shelves and is the first part of the puzzle.

How to Solve the First Bookcase Crank

Interact with the first crank to move the bookcases out of the way. This creates a temporary opening that allows you to continue forward.

However, you won't be able to simply walk through to the Restricted Section. After moving the shelves, you'll be knocked down to the lower floor and have to deal with the enemies in the area.

Defeat the enemies, then make your way back up to the second floor. The bookcase you moved earlier has now created access to another section of the library.

Correct Bookcase Crank Order

Once you're back upstairs, look behind the moved bookcase to find the second crank.

The correct sequence is:

• Use the first crank.
• Progress through the opening and survive the enemy encounter.
• Use the second crank behind the moved bookcase.
• Return to the first crank.
• Use the first crank a second time.

The key to solving the Library Annex Bookcase Puzzle is the A-B-A sequence: first crank, second crank, then first crank again. Using each crank only once will not open the route.

How to Reach the Restricted Section

After operating the first crank for the second time, the bookcases should move into their final positions and clear the route to the Restricted Section.

Enter the newly opened passage and continue through the library. You'll eventually find a glowing, mysterious book on a pedestal. Interacting with it progresses the story and leads into the next section of the Library Annex.

If you're also collecting the Library Annex E.R.C. Crate, continue through the area until you encounter Corentin. The E.R.C. Activator Pen can be collected after the encounter, allowing you to return to the first-floor crate.

FAQ

Q. What is the solution to the Library Annex Bookcase Puzzle?

A. The solution is first crank → second crank → first crank again.

Where is the second crank?

A. The second crank is located behind the bookcase and is moved by the first crank after you return to the upper floor.

Q. Why can't I reach the Restricted Section?

A. If the path is still blocked, make sure you've used the first crank twice, with the second crank used between those two interactions.

Q. Do I need to fight the enemies?

A. The enemy encounter occurs while progressing between the two crank mechanisms. Defeat the enemies so you can safely return upstairs and continue the puzzle.

Q. What happens after solving the puzzle?

A. The bookcases move into position, allowing you to enter the Restricted Section and continue the Library Annex story.