We Met at Roots: White Elephant Book Exchange

Which book could turn a stranger into a new friend?

It could be thought-provoking, educational, entertaining, nostalgic ... just make sure it's a conversation starter.

Wrap your favorite book (new or used) — or browse the selection at Roots Bookstore and Market, and we'll wrap it for you!

Join us for We Met at Roots, on Friday, Feb. 13, at the Liberty City bookstore for a white elephant exchange designed for adults 21+ seeking new connections.

🎂 It's our second birthday! This event is part of We Met in Miami's two-year anniversary celebrations. Find the full schedule of events here.

Why a book exchange?

In some countries around the world, Valentine's Day is celebrated as International Book Giving Day. The holiday encourages people to give books to loved ones and community members in need.

In a white elephant gift exchange, participants take turns unwrapping items and selecting or "stealing" their favorites.

After we swap books during the lighthearted game, we'll chat with the people who received our books — sharing why we think they are special.

Looking for a new friend or romantic spark?

At We Met in Miami events, we wear wristbands that show others who we are and what we’re looking for (choose one, two or all three):

💚 green for love

💙 blue for friendship

🌈 rainbow for members of the LGBTQIA+ community

💌 if you meet someone special, we’ll help you reconnect after the event

Here’s what to expect:

6 p.m. Arrival. Check in. Choose your wristbands and make a name tag. Browse the bookstore, and get your book wrapped if needed.

6:45 p.m. Opening. We’ll begin with introductions and an opening icebreaker.

7 p.m. White elephant book exchange. We'll unwrap, select and "steal" books during a lighthearted game.

8 p.m. Mix and mingle. Connect with the person who received your book — and the person whose book you received! Build literary community.

9 p.m. Event end. Meet someone cool? Fill out a Connection Card! If you match, we’ll reconnect you after the event.

Know what’s Happening Next — before everyone else does.

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