The Cedar Rapids Public Library is using a service similar to speed-dating to help people find their new best friend.

During speed dating, a person rotates around a room, talking to different people to try and find a match.

People will rotate talking to each person for about 5 minutes. They will have a list of ice-breaking questions like favorite TV shows or favorite songs.

When it's over they can decide on exchanging contact information to possibly become new friends.

Library workers said they put this together because it's really hard for people to get out of their comfort zones and meet people.

Reliance on social media is also making face to face interactions harder.

"It's practice talking to people you don't know. That's why I take it. Not necessarily that I"m going to meet my best buddy at this, I don't expect to meet my best friend, but who knows," participant Damon Derick said.

"It's being brave, but you can be brave. It's the new year, the new you," said Victoria Fernandez with the Cedar Rapids Public Library.

The event is Saturday from 10 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. You must be 18 years of age or older to participate.

Organizers tell me people can do whatever they want once they exchange numbers.

The event isn't aimed to find a significant other. The focus is on friendship.