Shellharbour City Council is encouraging residents to look closer to home this Valentine’s Day, launching a suite of local activities designed to celebrate connection and community.

Mayor Chris Homer said the day is an opportunity for residents to support local businesses and facilities while spending quality time with loved ones, whether that be with partners, friends, or family.

The festivities begin early at City Library on Friday, 13 February.

Between 10.30am and 11.30am, the community is invited to celebrate Library Lovers’ Day — a global event honouring the role of libraries and librarians.

Visitors can enjoy a celebratory cake in the foyer and participate in the popular "Blind Date with a Book" initiative, where readers can select a mystery title to take home.

For those looking for an alternative to traditional flowers, the Shellharbour City Council Nursery is promoting indoor plants as a gift that keeps growing.

Located at River Oak Place in Oak Flats, the nursery offers a wide range of greenery that provides a longer-lasting sentiment than a standard bouquet.

The nursery is open weekdays from 7.30am to 3.45pm.

Couples looking for an active outing can take advantage of a 2-for-1 deal at Shanx Mini Golf, located at The Links Shell Cove. Bookings are available until 8.15pm on Valentine’s Day, allowing visitors to pair a round of golf with a meal at the adjacent Tavern at The Links.

Council hopes that by offering a mix of creative, cultural, and leisure activities, every resident can find a meaningful way to celebrate.