The Anti-Valentine’s Day party seems to be a staple of Young Adult/Teen librarians, but this is my first ever. I’m still in the planning phase, but so far I’ve decided on including:
- Cranky, whiney, angry music
- Heart cookies cracked in half
- Garlicky food so you can’t make out with anyone
- A black duct tape rose craft
Right now, I’m putting up glittery angsty conversation hearts to hopefully get teens interested in showing up to the event. These are now hanging around the YA desk:
I effed up the lettering on this one, but I think the sentiment is clear:
Have you ever held an Anti-Valentine’s Day party? Any suggestions would be appreciated.
~(Anti)Love and Libraries, Ingrid
“Meh” If that’s not the most unimpressed library valentine, I don’t know what is. LOVE IT!
It might also be fun to explore failures/unrequited love themes. . . something akin to Daniel Handler’s Why We Broke Up with break up stories or objects from failed relationships as breakups. Or just oversized break up letters. http://whywebrokeupproject.tumblr.com/
I did UnValentines parties the first couple years I was here. The first year, everyone was super excited about the idea. The next year, less so. Last year, they were mostly confused. Super fun things: make fake poop (or other sculptures) out of modeling chocolate. Vandalize some dollar store V-Day decorations. One year, I just did a project–Voodoo Doll pincushion (I think it’s PINNNED on Pinterest. Heh.) That was just confusing to some of them lol Oh and I had fun making some not-quite-romantic mix CDs. Weird Al helps, as do punk covers.
You’ve given me some great ideas! Thank you. I did need some help in the music department.