Embarking on a Love Affair with Books
Published on 21 December 2023
Ah, February 14, a day drenched in love's sweet symphony, but behold, it is not just the lovers entwined in romance! Welcome to Library Lover's Day, a rendezvous for bibliophiles worldwide, where the heart skips a beat in the presence of bound treasures and tales. Let us, amidst the festivities, immerse ourselves in the enchantment of libraries and the intoxicating allure of their life-altering books.
Whispers of the Past: Inception of Libraries
Picture a time when libraries were but a dream! The word 'library' dances gracefully from the ancient Latin, meaning 'a sanctuary that cradles books.' In the beginning, these sanctuaries were appointed by the state, sacred grounds safeguarding the wisdom captured within precious manuscripts and tomes.
Chronicles Unveiled: The Love Story of Library Lover's Day
In 2006, a tale of love unfolded in the heart of Australia, courtesy of the State Library of New South Wales. By 2007, the Australian Library and Information Association (ALIA) embraced this love story, transforming it into a national celebration of bibliophiles and the sanctuaries that harbor infinite wonders. Initially conceived to illuminate the remarkable services libraries bestow upon us, it soon became a haven for those seeking solace on Valentine's Day.
Global Serenades: Themes and Traditions
Library Lover's Day, now a global affair, dons a unique theme each passing year. In 2018, Bond University's John & Alison Kearney Library embraced the day with a symphony of vintage typewriters, pens, and paper—a captivating overture that invited visitors to inscribe love letters to cherished someones or express devotion to their beloved library.
Come 2019, ALIA serenaded us with the theme 'Library Love Stories,' weaving tales of love amidst the bookshelves. A fictional story writing competition blossomed, narrating the enchanting journey of finding love in the library. Twitter, too, caught wind of the affair, as the hashtag #LibraryLoversDay soared into the realm of trending topics.
In 2020, South Perth Libraries donned the mantle of matchmakers, orchestrating an event where attendees filled out a 'Matchmaking Form.' The library's maestros then waltzed through literary landscapes, recommending books and authors akin to participants' very souls—a celestial dance of love and literature.
This Library Lover's Day, let us not only revel in the love between the pages but also immerse ourselves in the romance that libraries inspire. Whether you are a seasoned bibliophile or just beginning your courtship with literature, libraries remain the clandestine gardens where love for knowledge and stories blossoms eternally. Join us in celebrating these temples of inspiration on this special day dedicated to the magic, the romance, and the eternal love story that is the library.