Vernon Area Library to screen documentary

This Valentine's Day, the Vernon Area Public Library will screen "The Age of Love," a humorous and poignant documentary about the adventures of 30 seniors in Rochester, New York, who participate in a speed dating event exclusively for 70- to 90-year-olds.

The free screening will take place at 1 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 14.

The film shares how seniors navigate the comedy and drama of dating. Their actions and emotions reveal how the desire to love and be loved not only connects hearts of young and old, but remains just as confounding, nerve-wracking and rewarding at any stage in life.

Director/producer Steven Loring was inspired to make the film by his uncle's new romance at the age of 78.

According to Loring, "The Age of Love" was "a unique chance to discover how age affects our desire to start over, to be held once again in someone's arms, to seek new companionship and affection."

Following the screening of the 75-minute film at the library, a community social worker will lead a discussion about companionship, dating and the emotional lives of older adults.

The film's producers hope to initiate conversation with intergenerational audiences. Teenagers who view the film may be surprised and enlightened to find that people the age of their grandparents experience many of the same feelings about romance as they do.

"The Age of Love" is a provocative entertainment that also challenges preconception of aging.

The screening and discussion are free; all ages are welcomed and no library card is required. Registration is recommended. Participants can register at calendar.vapld.info, (224) 543-1485, or in person at any public service desk in the library.