Looking for a mate? Stroll down the library aisles

By Missy Henderson

I’ve been single my entire life. By the time you read this, I will have just turned 55.

That’s a whole lot of being single. Not to brag, but I could probably be considered an expert on being single. I fall somewhere between having that first (and only) date with someone to being in a long-term relationship.

There’s nothing wrong with being single. I rather enjoy the freedom of my singleness, but a part of me still wants the “happily ever after” with the right fellow. I’ve been proposed to twice, but neither of the proposals got me to the altar.

So, what’s a girl to do? Try your library.

The library has all kinds of resources. If you’re looking for Mr. Right, we have books ranging from “You Lost Him at Hello” to “How Not to Marry the Wrong Guy” and “Rescue Me, He’s Wearing a Moose Hat.”

Men, I haven’t forgotten you. If you’re seeking Ms. Right, then seek out the books “Always Talk to Strangers” or “How to Succeed With Women.”

Do you wonder what would happen if you tried a speed-dating approach? Go for the books “Love in 90 Days” and “Crash Course in Love” and find out.

If you wish to seek a professional’s advice, read “Mars and Venus Starting Over.” If you desire help from a psychic, you can refer to the book “Get your head out of your app.”

For a back-to-basics approach, try “The Flirting Bible.” For dating with a religious aspect, the book “Holdings Hands, Holding Hearts” might appeal to you.

The library also has Internet computers that you can use to create a profile for yourself for an online dating website. We also offer many programs on various topics that you could attend and possibly meet someone with similar interests.

If you aren’t looking for Mr. Right, but still want to be your own goddess, we have the books “Marie’s Home Improvement Guide” and “Dare to Repair: A Do-It-Herself Guide to Fixing (Almost) Anything in the Home” to aid you.

Car issues? “Dare to Repair Your Car” could help you make inexpensive repairs, or help pinpoint problems when you go to the mechanic. You might find the books “Going Solo” and “Living Well as a Single Mom” helpful in embracing your single status.

If it seems that all of the above-mentioned books are blaming you and pointing out all of your faults, look into a couple of books with a sense of humor. “Love Him or Leave Him, But Don’t Get Stuck With the Tab” and “Modern Romance” by comedian Aziz Ansari might tickle your funny bone and give you a few pointers.

Have you found that special someone and you’re dating? Congratulations, and look into the books “Deeper Dating,” “How to Date Like a Grown Up” and “Introverts in Love” to help you on your dating journey.

When you do find that ideal mate and marriage is the next step, be assured we have books on that subject, too.

Missy Henderson is a Technical Services Department Assistant at the Bartholomew County Public Library and can be reached at [email protected]