Painting with a Librarian

About the Program

Category: Libraries (Best in Category)

Year: 2022

Miami-Dade Public Library System (MDPLS) aims to provide the communities it serves with outstanding programs and cultural enrichment opportunities. The Painting with a Librarian program at MDPLS’s Palm Springs North (PSN) Branch Library is intended for all ages. It is a program where patrons can have a fun time challenging themselves by learning something new, hone existing skills, or simply play with a canvas and some paint. Classical music is played lightly in the background to create a relaxing atmosphere. The painting chosen for the demonstration is carefully selected to ensure it is not too difficult for children but not too simple for adults. The instructor provides encouragement to foster a positive and welcoming environment conducive for creative expression to flourish. This program was originally conceived to give students an opportunity to express themselves through art. However, Painting with a Librarian quicky became a way for patrons of all ages to enjoy artistic expression. With each painting session, program attendance has steadily increased with existing attendees returning and new patrons regularly joining the program. Staff assure hesitant participants by letting them know that the program is supposed to be fun with step-by-step instructions to guide them. Patrons are visibly less stressed and happier by the end of each program with many commenting that they would be attending the program every time it is offered because of how much they had enjoyed it.