For all the single men on the West Shore, Valentine’s Day could be your day to find love.
The Juan de Fuca library is looking for men to line the library for the first-ever speed dating event. The event has plenty of women signed up, but only a couple of men.
"I am always thinking of different ways to attract and reach different people," said Andrea Brimmell, head of the Juan de Fuca and Goudy library branches Andrea Brimmell. "We are a community gathering place, we aren't just about books anymore."
Books, however, may be one of the topics potential partners chat about when males and females aged 25 to 40 mingle in five-minute meetings with members of the opposite sex.
Following conversations, participants privately mark cards with people they are interested in meeting again. If a cupid strikes and both select each other, the library facilitates an exchange of contact information and the rest as they say, is history.
"I want to show people libraries are more than just books and author talks. We want to be a real community place where people come for all reasons and activities," said librarian Devon Tatton. "I hope that ultimately there is some kind of connection there but I just hope they have a really good time ... smiling laughing and having a really great time."
Tatton got the idea after browsing various websites where several people posted "missed connections," many taking place in libraries. She believed the demand was there so she brought it up to Brimmell, who loved the idea.
"It is a good way to get a face-to-face impression of someone without being committed to a full date," said Brimmell, who met her husband of 26 years at the library. "I think it has the potential to be a really positive experience. It is a safe venue, not a sketchy night club."
Valentines-themed refreshments and snacks will be served and the event is not limited exclusively to bibliophiles.
If the event proves to be successful, it may lead to an annual event and include different age groups, sexual orientations and even a speed friending option for people that may be new to the area or just looking for more friends.
"Even if you don't meet the love of your life it is a fun way to talk to people at a safe venue in the library," Brimmell said. "(But love) does happen and I know it can happen."
Juan de Fuca library speed dating (ages 25 to 40) is Valentines Day, Feb. 14, 7 p.m., 1759 Island Hwy.
The age 60-plus event is at the Central library in downtown Victoria, Feb. 11, at 2 p.m.
For more information and to sign up, visit www.gvpl.ca.
editor@goldstreamgazette.com