Still dateless for Valentine’s Day? Let the library hook you up as they take “book lovers” to a new level. A display located in the library’s first floor is filled with books covered in white paper decorated with hearts. These covers conceal the book title and image, but do not leave everything to the imagination. Instead, they offer a profile - much like one that would be found on a dating website.
Reference and Instruction Librarian Kim Pittman was one of the members who curated the collection with the library’s community and events team. A Google Doc was shared with everyone who worked in the library so anyone could write a description for a book to be displayed.
Though other schools, like UW-Madison, have done a book blind date in the past, this is the first time UMD has done it.
“We'd been talking about it for a while now, and thought Valentine's Day would be the perfect time to try it out,” Pittman said.
She encourages people to stop by the display, even if they are not planning on checking a book out (or at least not in the “technical” sense). The display is left unlocked so books can be browsed through and chosen without having to ask for help.
But the books shouldn’t be scrutinized too intensely; the point is to pick one solely based on the description, not a suggestion from a book-loving friend or an enticing book cover.
“Serendipity is a great way to find something new and surprising to read, and that's what we're going for here,”Pittman said.
After the book has been checked out, it is ready to be undressed. (A blind date with a book progresses much more rapidly than a date with another adult.)
“It should be way less awkward than a regular blind date,” Pittman said. “If it doesn't work out, you can always just return the book!”
But if the first one doesn’t work out, there’s always another one anxiously waiting to be chosen. As they say, book lovers never go to bed alone.
Book Profiles:
“I wonder, if you saw me as you hiked a gravel path or riverbed, would you stop to get to know me better? Many Minnesotans desire me but are fooled by exterior appearances. I’m interested in forming a solid relationship that will last like a rock.”
“I think you will find me quite beautiful, sometimes challenging, and certainly inventive beyond your imagination. I love fabric and trying new techniques of expression. Let’s explore together!”
“I’m looking for a 'tall' glass of water to spend some time with. I’m an excellent choice, ready to step back in time with the right someone.”
“Are you a poet who loves beauty and landscape? Or an artist who yearns for poetry? This collaboration could satisfy either way. I’m a Northland kind of dreamer looking for someone to trek this landscape of art and poetry with me. "
“People who spend a wee-wee bit of time with me pick up some cool expressions. Like, did you know that 'a fact and a half' is really a lie? You might want to learn more about me, man!”
“Take a chance with me. I know you may be a fool, knave, villain, or hypocrite without ever admitting it. And so might I.”
“Awkward but witty young adult seeks lifelong friends. Must love camping and appreciate the arts.”
“A traveler with stories to tell seeks a long-lost love from a far-off land.”
“Needed: one partner in crime. I’m into high stakes suspense and elaborate schemes. Prior experience not necessary, though I am the second of my kind.”
“I’m looking for someone who sees more than what meets the eye. Looking for the thrill of a real life mystery? Come and explore the unknown with me.”
“I’m a controversial man; I’d like to say I’m misunderstood. I promise I can make you laugh, as well as ponder the universe. Everyone loves a bad boy… right?”
“I’m your typical all-American man, but don’t think that makes me boring! Ever wanted to score with George Clooney? I’ll be your quarterback, if you’ll be my cheerleader.”
“Tired of the cold? Come with me and get HOT in the sunshine, and enjoy long walks in the desert!”
“Satisfaction means finding the right balance, and I can give you insights as your trusted guide. Let’s define happiness and success together.”
“Seeking daring individual with desire to explore. Must love travel and be current on vaccinations. Ability to carry and paddle a canoe is a must. Looking for someone to share high adventure!”
“There are always tell-tale signs of what the heart wants. When you give me a chance, I promise you’ll be searching nevermore.”
“Wanted: woman with a voice like a winter wren, the rain of a great horned owl, and legs like a sandhill crane.”
“Give me a call, mate! One on one, I want to play that game tonight.”