In February 2023, the Dr. John Archer Library & Archives launched the “Blind Date with a Sask Book” contest. Archer Library patrons were given the opportunity to browse a display of wrapped library books and judge each one—not by their cover, but by their descriptions. Patrons could then borrow a mystery book, read it, and then complete a “Rate Your Date” online form for a chance to win a one of two prize packages generously donated by the University of Regina Press (approximate value $125.) Of the many entries received, two winners were chosen: Ariston Bonarchuk and Nicholas Antonini. Given the positive response to the contest, future iterations of the “Blind Date” concept will no doubt occur in the semesters to come.
“It was an ecstatic experience as since due to exams I was feeling so stressed out and had been inconsistent with my reading habits but I guess after a while I read poetry and it was amazing!!”
“It pushed me to go to the library and check other things out.”
“If it were not for the event, I would never pick up a collection of poems myself. But it turned out great!”
“I loved the whole premise - it drew me in right away.”
“Reading the novel gave me something to look forward to after studying for midterms.”
“I’ve seen these events before, but I’ve never done one. It was neat. I really liked the unwrapping of a mystery book. I liked that the books were all thin and small, so nothing too daunting.”
“I would like to say a BIG THANK YOU for organizing this. It just brought so much colour to this student’s life.”
“This was a great event! It was easy to participate, a fun way to use the library, and you get to check out a book that you might otherwise have never read!”
“I really loved the book I chose. It was a huge surprise. I was expecting something totally different, based on the description that was given on the cover. Yet, I was happy I got a book that I myself would not have chosen if I saw the cover. It turned out to be a great read and I learned new things.”
