BOISE, Idaho (CBS2) — The Library! at Hillcrest has an innovative way for Idahoans to connect.
It's speed dating with a twist - participants have four minutes to chat with a stranger and potentially make a new friend, before rotating onto the next conversation.
"There have been studies and reports that loneliness has been on the rise over the last couple of years, and that really is what inspired me to do it. I've heard about other libraries hosting events like this nationwide, and I thought that was a really good idea because it's hard to make friends. Having someone to help facilitate that helps a lot," explains Brittany Krogel, organizer of the event.
Brittany was right - The comfortable atmosphere of the library allowed for ease of conversation between attendees.
Conversations are not limited to just icebreakers. I was lucky enough to chat with other participants about a multitude of topics - including retirement, travel, photography, and so much more.
When asked to give advice to someone thinking about attending an event like this, attendee Shellie Wood said, "Just come and don't have any expectations for yourself. Present your authentic interests and hopefully you'll find someone you click with."
Events like this not only provide opportunities for participants to meet new people, but a sense of community.
"Most people are nervous to attend stuff like this because it is a little nerve-wracking. Putting yourself out there and trying to meet new people is a new experience altogether. Don't worry about it. Most people feel the same way." Brittany Krogel adds.
The Library! at Hillcrest is planning on hosting Speed Friending events quarterly throughout the year, with the next one being hosted on the first of May. You can find out more about this event and others like it on the Boise Public Library's website, as well as on their social media.
This story on the Library! at Hillcrest was my first solo-reporting job as an intern for CBS2.
I am currently a freshman at Boise State University, studying Integrated Media and Strategic Communications, with an emphasis in media.
For my spring semester, I have been blessed with the opportunity to do a paid internship through Voces Internship of Idaho.
Voces Internship of Idaho provides an opportunity for Latino college students and recent graduates interested in journalism to gain hands on learning experiences in Idaho newsrooms.
This experience has been phenomenal for me. I have been hard at work writing for the website, writing stories for newscasts, researching, and beginning the process of creating my next story.
Click this link to find more information about Voces Internship of Idaho.
ncG1vNJzZmihlJa1sLrEsKpnm5%2BifK%2Bx1qxmpaeTlrlwuMibqZqqqWKutXnHoqOlm6KawLV5xaiqrZ2iqHqku8ymrKehpK56uLXToWSipp6kw6LAyK%2BcZqugmrKlecWroJ6mlJ67qHnEr5ynrA%3D%3D