Novel way to make friends – speed dating in the library

A NOVEL way to meet new people in Warrington comes this Valentine’s when LiveWire holds its first Speed Dating event.
The free event in the library at Orford Neighbourhood Jubilee Hub – for people aged 30 and over – is being held on Wednesday February 13 at 7pm.
It is being organised by LiveWire’s team of community librarians, who have been in contact with a dating agency for tips on how to make the event – thought to be one of the UK’s first library speed dating events – a success.
Admission is free but pre-registering for the event is essential – simply contact any LiveWire library to book.
Wendy Molyneux, LiveWire’s strategic library manager, said: “Library speed dating is popular in the US and Canada, in fact in Omaha speed dating in the library has led to three marriages. But it’s a very new concept in the UK – so we’re trailblazing this idea.
“In today’s busy world there is a perception that everyone is more connected than ever.  However, studies show this isn’t necessarily the case so speed dating is a unique way to combat social isolation.  It can sometimes be difficult to meet new people and not everyone is comfortable with online dating.  Libraries are safe, trusted and welcoming community spaces so provide an ideal venue to meet new people and maybe find that ‘certain someone’.
“We are seeking to provide a ‘coffee shop’ feel so have invited a local artisan coffee company – Amber Coffee Roasters – along to sell coffee, and there will also be cakes on offer too.
“It’s all part of LiveWire’s commitment to finding new and innovative ways of using libraries to encourage people to come in and make the most of the facilities and activities on offer.”
The speed dating event has been given the backing of A Time to Read, the partnership of public library authorities in the North West that collaborate on reader development initiatives.
Ian Anstice, Time to Read co-ordinator, said: “This is a very rare thing to see libraries do in the UK, although such speed dating events are far more common in the USA, so it’s great to see Warrington’s libraries leading the way here. There is always a certain romance to libraries anyway – eyes can often meet amongst the bookshelves and it’s a good place to have a conversation – so this is taking things to a logical conclusion. We all wish Warrington every success.”
Another unusual library event taking place soon is a “Mocktail” making class being held at Lymm Library, as part of “Dry January” on Saturday January 26 from 11.00am to 1.00pm. Learn how to make a “Pom Collins” using healthy ingredients. Cost is £1.50 per person or £5 for a family of four. Suitable for all ages. Booking is essential at the library.
For more information on the event, and LiveWire’s libraries visit www.livewirewarrington.co.uk/events.