Bookstore singles events offer a real-life romance alternative to dating apps
TOI GLOBAL | Feb 16, 2026, 21:42 IST
Singles disillusioned with dating apps are turning to bookstore mixers that prioritize real-world interaction and shared literary interests. Events hosted by Bored of Dating Apps at Book Club Bar in New York demonstrate a growing desire for slower, more meaningful connections, signaling a cultural shift back toward traditional meet-cute romance.
As frustration with swipe-driven dating continues to grow, some singles are rediscovering romance the old-fashioned way—by meeting face-to-face among shelves of books. In New York City, a recent gathering at Book Club Bar drew readers searching not just for their next favorite novel, but potentially for love.
The event was organized by Bored of Dating Apps, a group focused on encouraging in-person connections instead of algorithm-based matchmaking. Held just days before Valentine’s Day, the evening avoided traditional speed-dating structures. Instead, guests mingled casually with drinks in hand, chatting about literature, life and shared interests. Some attendees hoped to meet a romantic partner, while others were simply open to conversation or friendship.
Organizers say the relaxed format is key to the event’s appeal. Without timed rotations or pressure-filled games, participants can interact naturally. The bookstore setting itself becomes an icebreaker, offering endless conversation starters through favorite authors, genres and memorable stories. That environment, attendees noted, feels warmer and more authentic than scrolling through curated online profiles.
Singles disillusioned with dating apps are turning to bookstore mixers that prioritize real-world interaction and shared literary interests. Events hosted by Bored of Dating Apps at Book Club Bar in New York demonstrate a growing desire for slower, more meaningful connections, signaling a cultural shift back toward traditional meet-cute romance.
Many who attended described deep fatigue with dating apps. Studies in recent years have shown high levels of burnout among younger adults, with users citing endless messaging, delayed meetups and emotionally detached interactions. For these singles, bookstore gatherings provide something digital platforms cannot easily replicate—spontaneity and genuine presence.
Shared reading habits also signal compatibility on a deeper level. Some participants said they value partners who read fiction because it reflects empathy and curiosity about the world. Others bonded over specific genres such as horror, science fiction or fantasy, including popular series like Throne of Glass. These mutual interests help conversations flow more easily than typical first-date small talk.
The evening even included a romantic incentive. One pair who formed a strong connection received tickets to the Metropolitan Opera, reinforcing the event’s goal of sparking meaningful, offline relationships. While not every attendee left with a date, many described the experience as refreshing simply because it encouraged authentic human interaction
.
What began as a small concept overseas has expanded rapidly into major cities, producing friendships, long-term couples, engagements and even families among past participants. Hosts—many of whom first attended as singles themselves—now help newcomers feel comfortable and confident walking into the room alone.
The popularity of these gatherings reflects a broader cultural shift. Dating apps still dominate modern romance, but growing numbers of people are questioning whether convenience has come at the cost of connection. Bookstore mixers suggest an alternative path: fewer choices, slower conversations and a setting that encourages vulnerability rather than performance.
As Valentine’s Day approaches, the packed bookstore scene highlights a simple truth. Even in a digital age, many singles still believe the best love stories begin not with a swipe, but with an unexpected conversation in a shared space.
As frustration with swipe-driven dating continues to grow, some singles are rediscovering romance the old-fashioned way—by meeting face-to-face among shelves of books. In New York City, a recent gathering at Book Club Bar drew readers searching not just for their next favorite novel, but potentially for love.
The event was organized by Bored of Dating Apps, a group focused on encouraging in-person connections instead of algorithm-based matchmaking. Held just days before Valentine’s Day, the evening avoided traditional speed-dating structures. Instead, guests mingled casually with drinks in hand, chatting about literature, life and shared interests. Some attendees hoped to meet a romantic partner, while others were simply open to conversation or friendship.
Organizers say the relaxed format is key to the event’s appeal. Without timed rotations or pressure-filled games, participants can interact naturally. The bookstore setting itself becomes an icebreaker, offering endless conversation starters through favorite authors, genres and memorable stories. That environment, attendees noted, feels warmer and more authentic than scrolling through curated online profiles.
Many who attended described deep fatigue with dating apps. Studies in recent years have shown high levels of burnout among younger adults, with users citing endless messaging, delayed meetups and emotionally detached interactions. For these singles, bookstore gatherings provide something digital platforms cannot easily replicate—spontaneity and genuine presence.
Shared reading habits also signal compatibility on a deeper level. Some participants said they value partners who read fiction because it reflects empathy and curiosity about the world. Others bonded over specific genres such as horror, science fiction or fantasy, including popular series like Throne of Glass. These mutual interests help conversations flow more easily than typical first-date small talk.
The evening even included a romantic incentive. One pair who formed a strong connection received tickets to the Metropolitan Opera, reinforcing the event’s goal of sparking meaningful, offline relationships. While not every attendee left with a date, many described the experience as refreshing simply because it encouraged authentic human interaction.
What began as a small concept overseas has expanded rapidly into major cities, producing friendships, long-term couples, engagements and even families among past participants. Hosts—many of whom first attended as singles themselves—now help newcomers feel comfortable and confident walking into the room alone.
The popularity of these gatherings reflects a broader cultural shift. Dating apps still dominate modern romance, but growing numbers of people are questioning whether convenience has come at the cost of connection. Bookstore mixers suggest an alternative path: fewer choices, slower conversations and a setting that encourages vulnerability rather than performance.
Even in a digital age, many singles still believe the best love stories begin not with a swipe, but with an unexpected conversation in a shared space.
The event was organized by Bored of Dating Apps, a group focused on encouraging in-person connections instead of algorithm-based matchmaking. Held just days before Valentine’s Day, the evening avoided traditional speed-dating structures. Instead, guests mingled casually with drinks in hand, chatting about literature, life and shared interests. Some attendees hoped to meet a romantic partner, while others were simply open to conversation or friendship.
Organizers say the relaxed format is key to the event’s appeal. Without timed rotations or pressure-filled games, participants can interact naturally. The bookstore setting itself becomes an icebreaker, offering endless conversation starters through favorite authors, genres and memorable stories. That environment, attendees noted, feels warmer and more authentic than scrolling through curated online profiles.
Singles disillusioned with dating apps are turning to bookstore mixers that prioritize real-world interaction and shared literary interests. Events hosted by Bored of Dating Apps at Book Club Bar in New York demonstrate a growing desire for slower, more meaningful connections, signaling a cultural shift back toward traditional meet-cute romance.
Many who attended described deep fatigue with dating apps. Studies in recent years have shown high levels of burnout among younger adults, with users citing endless messaging, delayed meetups and emotionally detached interactions. For these singles, bookstore gatherings provide something digital platforms cannot easily replicate—spontaneity and genuine presence.
Shared reading habits also signal compatibility on a deeper level. Some participants said they value partners who read fiction because it reflects empathy and curiosity about the world. Others bonded over specific genres such as horror, science fiction or fantasy, including popular series like Throne of Glass. These mutual interests help conversations flow more easily than typical first-date small talk.
The evening even included a romantic incentive. One pair who formed a strong connection received tickets to the Metropolitan Opera, reinforcing the event’s goal of sparking meaningful, offline relationships. While not every attendee left with a date, many described the experience as refreshing simply because it encouraged authentic human interaction
.
What began as a small concept overseas has expanded rapidly into major cities, producing friendships, long-term couples, engagements and even families among past participants. Hosts—many of whom first attended as singles themselves—now help newcomers feel comfortable and confident walking into the room alone.
The popularity of these gatherings reflects a broader cultural shift. Dating apps still dominate modern romance, but growing numbers of people are questioning whether convenience has come at the cost of connection. Bookstore mixers suggest an alternative path: fewer choices, slower conversations and a setting that encourages vulnerability rather than performance.
As Valentine’s Day approaches, the packed bookstore scene highlights a simple truth. Even in a digital age, many singles still believe the best love stories begin not with a swipe, but with an unexpected conversation in a shared space.
As frustration with swipe-driven dating continues to grow, some singles are rediscovering romance the old-fashioned way—by meeting face-to-face among shelves of books. In New York City, a recent gathering at Book Club Bar drew readers searching not just for their next favorite novel, but potentially for love.
The event was organized by Bored of Dating Apps, a group focused on encouraging in-person connections instead of algorithm-based matchmaking. Held just days before Valentine’s Day, the evening avoided traditional speed-dating structures. Instead, guests mingled casually with drinks in hand, chatting about literature, life and shared interests. Some attendees hoped to meet a romantic partner, while others were simply open to conversation or friendship.
Organizers say the relaxed format is key to the event’s appeal. Without timed rotations or pressure-filled games, participants can interact naturally. The bookstore setting itself becomes an icebreaker, offering endless conversation starters through favorite authors, genres and memorable stories. That environment, attendees noted, feels warmer and more authentic than scrolling through curated online profiles.
Many who attended described deep fatigue with dating apps. Studies in recent years have shown high levels of burnout among younger adults, with users citing endless messaging, delayed meetups and emotionally detached interactions. For these singles, bookstore gatherings provide something digital platforms cannot easily replicate—spontaneity and genuine presence.
Shared reading habits also signal compatibility on a deeper level. Some participants said they value partners who read fiction because it reflects empathy and curiosity about the world. Others bonded over specific genres such as horror, science fiction or fantasy, including popular series like Throne of Glass. These mutual interests help conversations flow more easily than typical first-date small talk.
The evening even included a romantic incentive. One pair who formed a strong connection received tickets to the Metropolitan Opera, reinforcing the event’s goal of sparking meaningful, offline relationships. While not every attendee left with a date, many described the experience as refreshing simply because it encouraged authentic human interaction.
What began as a small concept overseas has expanded rapidly into major cities, producing friendships, long-term couples, engagements and even families among past participants. Hosts—many of whom first attended as singles themselves—now help newcomers feel comfortable and confident walking into the room alone.
The popularity of these gatherings reflects a broader cultural shift. Dating apps still dominate modern romance, but growing numbers of people are questioning whether convenience has come at the cost of connection. Bookstore mixers suggest an alternative path: fewer choices, slower conversations and a setting that encourages vulnerability rather than performance.
Even in a digital age, many singles still believe the best love stories begin not with a swipe, but with an unexpected conversation in a shared space.