KAINAN, Wakayama -- Why don't you solve your problems with "word supplements"? A library here has started a "library pharmacy" event, in which books are lent out in a paper bag resembling a medicine envelope according to the "symptoms" of the user, such as "I want to get a supportive push."

The bags are labeled with a description of the book's expected "effects" after reading it, such as "gives you energy," as if it were a prescription. Since the user does not know what kind of book is in the bag until she or he opens it, the person in charge of the Shimotsu Library in Kainan, Wakayama Prefecture, hopes that "users will have an unexpected encounter with a book of a different genre from the ones they are familiar with."

Inspired by the initiatives of other libraries introduced online and in other media, this was the first time for the Shimotsu Library to hold such an event. It runs until Jan. 12, and 100 bags containing recommended books selected by library staff were prepared on a first-come, first-served basis.

In a designated section, books are lined up in white "yomigusuri" (reading medicine) bags like the ones you get at the pharmacy. On each bag are keywords indicating the symptoms treated, such as "for when you want to be positive" and "for those who don't want to give up on what they like," as well as effects such as "tears, overflowing" and "good learning experience." The age range is divided into five categories, from "preschoolers" to "general." Visitors borrow books without looking at the title, relying on the description on the bag.

Arisa Maehara, 34, who dropped by with her children on Dec. 21, the first day of the event, said, "My children will enjoy it because they will be excited and thrilled by the anticipation until they open the bags at home."

Kimiko Minakata, the librarian who planned the event, said, "We hope that users will share their feedback on what they have read with our staff to help connect the circle of people."

(Japanese original by Atsuhisa Kato, Wakayama Bureau)