The romance book genre has gotten a bad rap over the years, from bodice ripper covers to their “steamy” content. However this Thursday, Feb. 13, the city is hosting a “Galentine’s Day” and celebrating the progression and surge in popularity of romance novels.

Held at College Hill Library from 6-7:30 p.m., Galentine’s Day was created by Amy Poehler’s character Leslie Knope from the show Parks and Recreation. It’s celebrated every February 13 and is a day for ladies to celebrate ladies…with waffles and love.

“We want to celebrate all the library’s romance novel readers and Colorado romance novel writers, so this second annual Galantine’s brings them together with games, glitter and goodies!” said Library Services Coordinator Jessi Barrientos.

Romance novel writers check out and read the genre mostly digitally, according to Barrientos, so Galantine’s Day is an opportunity to interact with the library in person.

“The romance genre is going through a transition to become more welcoming through illustrated-style covers and larger trade paperback format books,” said Barrientos. “We want to make sure this community of readers feels welcomed and recognized at Westminster’s libraries.”

Authors attending the event include Courtney Milan, Joan Johnston and Tricia Downing. Attendees can hear them talk during a panel discussion and get their books signed. The event will have book giveaways, Galentine’s Day decorations, crafts, a waffle bar and photo opportunities with Fabio and Jamie Fraser from Outlander. Well…their cardboard cutouts.

“We’re so excited for people to come to the event to celebrate the exploding genre of romance novels, meet the authors, and have a good time,” said Barrientos.