Toddlers, teenagers and baby boomers congregated on the shady wraparound patio at Emporia Public Library Monday evening to twist, dip and dye their ways to a masterpiece tie-dye creation.

Public Services Librarian Molly Chenault said, “Our summer theme is “Color Our World” and tie-dye seemed to fit in well. We’re recycling our 150th anniversary t-shirts for participants to use. It’s a fun craft for all ages–come and have fun and make a mess!”

Three-year-old Cory Thomas and his mom Quiaunna Thomas were pleased with their tie-dye creation. “I’m always trying to get him out and do things that are appropriate to his age group,” Quiaunna said. “This is fun!”

Chris Wilkinson was working on an intricate tie-dye design. “I’m here because I like to tie-dye.” She grinned and added, “Plus, it’s fun to make messes in other people’s spaces.”

Thirteen-year-old Addy Rhoads and her twelve-year-old sister Jess Rhoads are from Wichita. They’re spending their summer in Emporia with their grandmother, Linda Rhoads, while their father is in the VA hospital in Wichita. Both girls were familiar with tie-dye and showed off their fashion masterpieces.

“I didn’t know we were doing it–it was a surprise!” 10-year-old Kennedy Siebert exclaimed. Mom Heather Siebert was helping Kennedy’s six-year-old brother Alex, who announced that his favorite part of the project was being messy.

Tony and Deon Hall were comfortably perched on a patio park bench and busily wrapping rubber bands around their artfully-twisted t-shirts. The Halls were teenagers when tie-dye was popular the first time around in the 1960s. When asked whose idea it was to participate in the library’s tie-dye party, Tony grinned and pointed at Deon.

Fourteen-year-olds Angeline Ortiz and Isabella Floyd were excited to make their summer tie-dye t-shirt creations. “I love tie-dyeing!” Isabella exclaimed. “I have so many shirts I have made! And this is free!”

Angeline commented, “I’ve never done tie-dye before. But I love doing anything that’s hands-on.”

The Emporia Public Library summer theme of “Color Our World” extends to a wide range of free programs and activities designed to encourage reading, creativity and connection with something for all ages at the library this summer.

“Summer reading helps kids keep learning when school’s out, but it also gives our whole community a reason to come together and celebrate books, creativity, and curiosity,” said Pauline Stacchini, Library Director. “With this year’s theme, “Color Our World,” we’re focusing on stories and experiences that brighten our lives and broaden our view of the world.”

An “Emporia Reads Together” book discussion is scheduled for Wed., July 30, at 5:30 p.m., where participants will discuss the book “Strong Towns: A Bottom-Up Revolution to Rebuild American Prosperity.” The book is available for check out at the library and also as a Sunflower eLibrary ebook.

To learn more about events at Emporia Public Library, check the online calendar on their website at www.emporialibrary.org , email them at , visit their Facebook page, and sign up for the monthly newsletter via the library website or by visiting or phoning the library.