Monday's event pairs borrowers with specially wrapped mystery books, chosen by library staff as being particularly deserving of a hook-up with a willing reader, Queenstown library manager Robyn Robertson said.
"We are choosing books we personally enjoyed or feel passionate about. The books are all gift-wrapped, with only a barcode on the outside, so it really is a blind date with a book and there's no telling what you might get.
"There's a cheeky mix of fiction and non-fiction, with a nod towards the day that inspired the whole initiative. There's bound to be some romance in there - it is Valentine's Day after all - but there's also a real mix of other genres.
"Like any date, there's an element of risk. But who knows; it could spark a lifelong love affair with a new author," Mrs Robertson said.
In the mix are librarians Annie Wilcox and Niki Mason's picks A Thousand Country Roads, by Robert James Waller, and The Dog & Lemon Guide to Buying Cars.
Those heading out from the library with a blind date are encouraged to share the experience.
"We'd like to hear from people about their date, whether it's a one-word review or a full critique," Mrs Robertson said.
Reviewers will get a DVD voucher. Reviews will be posted on the library website http://libraries.codc-qldc.govt.nz/.
• For further information, contact the library on (03) 441-0600.
