Early last year, the Livingston Library initiated adult drop-in coloring sessions.  These sessions were held on Monday nights and Thursday mornings,   with coloring pages and supplies provided, and also featured relaxing background music.  The programs were planned on a trial basis for two months, but attracted a steady audience and continued throughout the year. The schedule for January and February 2017 is already posted on the library’s website at livingston.bccls.org.

Adult DIY arts and crafts programs are fun, instructive, creative, and offer meaningful engagement to adults, according to Librarian Archana Chiplunkar, who has arranged for these programs.   Besides giving them time away from the computer, TV and mobile screens, these programs also offer adults the chance to build/learn new skills, explore new materials, and to discover or spark a new interest.

“The opportunity for social engagement and for productive use of time are other benefits,” she adds.

Zentangle workshops held this past fall were also very popular and brought a lot of positive feedback.

So, in 2017, residents will see even more adult art programs. Two workshops of adult beginner origami, one on Jan. 26 and another on Feb. 9, both from 11 a.m. to 12.30 p.m., will be led by Martha Landy, a professional paper folder. She will show how to fold simple models and will share models designed by creators from all over the world.

Art Kids Academy has been booked for sessions of Adult Paint Night,  on Feb. 15 and March 15^.   Each will run from 7 p.m. to 8 p.m., and will include an interactive presentation, a step by step demonstration, and all art materials and supplies.

Looking ahead to spring, collage, mosaics and calligraphy workshops are being planned.

The drop-in coloring sessions are open to everyone, but because space is limited for the other workshops, registration is required.  Register online through the library events calendar at livingston.bccls.org, or call 973 992 4600 x263.

Livingston residents are given first preference for these programs, but out-of-town residents may go on a waiting list.

The workshops are free and all materials are included.

To view the flyers and to register, please go to livingston.bccls.org.