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Speed-dating event results in bookish hook-ups
Jim Mitchel of Deerfield (left) and Debra Jarrett of Glenview enjoy conversation. | Michael Schmidt~Sun-Times Media
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Updated: March 17, 2012 8:12AM
Four new potential couples hooked up last week at the Highland Park Public Library during a special pre-Valentine’s Day speed-dating event.
The popular dating format was modified to suit the library, organizers explained, as each participant was asked to bring his or her favorite or current book.
“It was an ice breaker,” explained Highland Park resident Jill Rudman, who hosted the event for the library because she runs a local match-making business. “Everyone liked that they were meeting people they knew were also interested in reading.”
Rudman reported that 12 women and four men participated. After sitting down with each person, four matches were discovered, Rudman said.
“I thought it was great,” she added. “It was a small turnout, but the people who came really enjoyed it. The women said it was safe environment as opposed to meeting men in a bar.”
Beth Keller, the library’s marketing specialist, said she found the library-converted dating event debuted in Europe, and Highland Park was the first to bring it to the area.
“We thought it would be fun to host it here and bring readers together and into the library,” Keller said.
Feb. 9 was picked so potential daters could set up a first date for Valentine’s Day.
Rudman said a similar event may be held again in the future.
