Tinder, beware. Literary speed dating is the newest sensation to grace the relationship scene. The Lillian H. Smith library in Toronto recently hosted a speed dating night intended for bookworms to meet and mingle.
Free of charge, minglers were asked to bring a copy of their favourite book to discuss with prospective dates.
Afterwards, participants decide if they’d like to speak to each date again and tallied up. Minglers would later be emailed their top matches.
After hearing about other libraries hosting successful speed dating events, Lillian H. Smith librarian Marnie Woudstra thought it would be a great idea to host their own rendition.
Fellow librarian Nancy-Anne Davies said patrons have always been receptive to new and unique programs and this was not an exception.
“We thought it would be a hit and luckily that gamble paid off in a big way,” Davies said. “We quickly had such a positive response to the first program, which was geared toward men and women seeking to date members of the opposite sex, that we started planning an LGBTQ+ event straight away to coincide with Pride Week.”
As the library’s literary speed dating was met with intense popularity and rave reviews, more of these events will be held in the future, including a senior-only event in the form of an afternoon tea, according to Davies.
Carleton University librarian Wayne Jones said he liked the possibility of hosting a similar event in the future.
“It sounds like an intriguing idea. We’re trying to have more events in the library that have literary and book connections but also have a fun element in it,” explained Jones. “While the library is primarily a place for people to read and work, we want it to be a culture centre as well.”
Students as well are open to the idea of literary speed dating, with some even interested in trying the quirky program.
“I really enjoy reading, so I would think a partner that shares that interest would be good,” said Natasha Lewis, a second-year child studies student. “I’m not really sure I’d be down for speed dating but for other people I think it’s probably cool.”
Lewis said if she were to attend an event, she would bring Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers and seeking a potential match, would like him to bring something similar or Sherlock Holmes.
According to Davies, literary speed dating has helped one couple find love.
“We actually found out a man and woman who met at our first event did end up going out and are now dating,” Davies gushed. “It’s great when love stories like that have a happy ending, not just for the people involved, but to let us at the library know the programs offered through Toronto Public Library really do have a positive effect on people’s lives.”
