Serving Jackson, Macon and Swain Counties with six public libraries in Western North Carolina

VALENTINE'S DAY

February 14 is the traditional day on which lovers express their love for each other by sending cards, presenting flowers, or offering confectionery. The holiday is named after two Early Christian martyrs named Valentine.

The day became associated with romantic love probably because it is the date on which the birds are supposed to start spring mating. The day is most closely associated with the mutual exchange of love notes in the form of "valentines." Modern Valentine symbols include the heart-shaped outline, doves, and the figure of the winged Cupid.

Check out this book, America Celebrates! A Patchwork of Weird & Wonderful Holiday Lore and other books about Valentine’s Day at your library.

• Valentines by Ted Kooser.

• Hershey: Milton S. Hersey’s extraordinary life of wealth, empire, and utopian dreams by Michael D’Antonia.

• Love Lore: symbols, legends and recipes for romance by Julienne Gehrer.

• A Natural History of Love by Diane Ackerman.

• Valentine: a love story by Chet Raymo.

• The Anti-Valentine’s Handbook by Johan More.

• Book of Love by Andrew Greeley

• Isn’t it Romantic: 100 love poems by younger American poets.

• Chocolate: a bittersweet saga of dark and light by Mort Rosenblum.

• The Joy of Family Traditions: a season-by-season companion to celebrations, holidays, and special occasions by Jennifer Trainer Thompson.

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JUST FOR CHILDREN
What do wimpy kids, gangsters, pilgrims, pink pigs, President Barak Obama, dogs and Calamity Jane have in common? Why they are in the latest books in the children's section at your library. Check out the new books now available.

FOR EVERYONE
Have you ever wanted to pick up a new craft, but weren't sure where to start? Let the library help point you in the right direction for your new hobby. Check out some new arts and crafts books available at your Fontana Regional Libraries.