Prompt Response: Promoting Romance

Romance is so popular that it really doesn't need promotion, at least at my library. But it is something that lends itself well to a few ideas. I was thinking of a take on the classic blind-date-with-a-book, sort of a cross between that and Garanimals. You could have a display showing a series of cards with read-likes and words giving a clue to the elements in the book (like historical, contemporary, intricate plot, Ireland, paranormal, racy, etc), which each contain a symbol that would match up with paper-wrapped Romance books, which would have that symbol on them too if they are a good "match" for the clues and books listed on the card. Readers could search for a book they have read and want a read-alike for, or just factors that appeal to them, and have a little fun playing a game finding their next Romance read. It could be tied in with a Valentine's day drawing, also. If you enjoyed the book you read, or weren't that crazy about it, write a brief review for other readers and be entered in a drawing for dinner for two at a local restaurant. Reviews (with permission) could make up another display after the first is finished.

Integrated Advisory would be great to do with Romance. There are so many movies in this genre that having a monthly movie night featuring new and classic romance films would be fun for many people. Even those who don't really read romance could definitely have an interest in seeing An Affair to Remember, or Breakfast at Tiffany's, or Austenland, or The Time-Traveler's Wife. Information about the movie, the book (if it was based on a book), and a list of books, audio books, other movies, and music that the library offers could be given out at each showing, as well as information regarding the many Romance and other book clubs the library system offers.