Iberia Parish Library staff member Stephanie Lee discovered the Blind Date with a Book idea on Pinterest. Her display at the Main Branch also was implemented at other branches throughout the system including Parkview, St. Peters, Coteau and Lydia. Hurry in, Blind Date books are available through February.

Blind dates are not always a popular or positive experience for two people who have never met, but the trend to choose a book for a blind date seems to be catching on.

Libraries and even bookstores are engaging the concept of a Blind Date with a Book for Library Month, summer reads or even gift-giving.

One of the newest members of the Iberia Parish Library staff embraced the idea and set up a Valentine-themed display based on pictures she observed on Pinterest.

“It’s been an amazing experience so far,” said Stephanie Lee at the Main Branch, who discovered the movement. “The biggest challenge was figuring out how to wrap the books and keep the bar codes exposed for checkout.”

Once Lee created the colorful hearts display at her branch, others in the Iberia system followed suit. Staff members made title recommendations which also reflected their individual personalities. The replenishing list of mysterious books were then covered

in brown paper embellished with handwritten keywords and descriptions.

Signs remind prospective dates: “Don’t judge a book by its cover! Take a chance on book love today. It might just surprise you!”

Branches organized blind date books according to patron interests. The Main Branch selections focus on young adult stories, while Parkview features more biographies and nonfiction. Jean Segura selected a variety of genres for her readers at Coteau including sciencefiction, western and brand new books. These books are available for blind dates through the end of February.

JoAnn Clay at the Lydia Branch reported patrons checked out all of the books she selected and prepared. For added insight, some Lydia readers completed surveys indicating the event was successful. St. Peter Branch considered the popularity of food and dating so included cookbooks in their selection.

Not everyone took to the adventure of exploring the unknown. The Delcambre Branch chose not to participate, Jeanerette reported the program was not popular while Loreauville’s display was intriguing but with no takers.

When asked what constitutes a good book, Lee said, “Well-written with a gripping plot, good and unique characters and for young adults, not too cheesy.”

The intention of the exercise was to encourage readers to explore new authors or genres that might not match the conscience choice of avid readers. Perhaps it’s the solution for someone unsure what to read.

“The Blind Date with a Book program gives readers an opportunity to meet a new favorite author or begin a new series,” she said.

Lee, a New Iberia Senior High School and University of Louisiana at Lafayette graduate in English and history, joined the Iberia Parish Library Main Branch in May. Her fresh energy will be an asset to patrons and the staff as they continue to bring entertaining workshops, educational sessions, and hands-on activities to the community free of charge.

“Why pay for entertainment when you can go to the library for free,” she said. “The more you read, the more exposure not only to education, but to things in the world that will give more opportunities in your life.”

February is National Library Month, but efforts to provide a variety of weekly, monthly or seasonal activities continue year round.

The Iberia Parish Library staff are developing new teen workshops, as well as more interactive social media sites to communicate the multifaceted offerings available to the general public.

For more information about library functions as well as to pick out a good book, audio book, or visual media, stop by your local library or visit www.IberiaLibrary.org.