While most of the evidence for its effectiveness as therapy is currently anecdotal, the majority of adults who have begun coloring again are defending its calming attributes. Some categorize it with other forms of the scientifically-backed “art therapy,” while others do not. But there is no denying that most of those who have picked up the colored pencil, crayon or felt-tipped pen are enjoying coloring between the lines.

The massive numbers of adult coloring books no won the markets ,in the grocery store check out lines, and ranking among best sellers on Amazon prove the popularity of this trend.

In some social circles, adult coloring has become a popular way to meet people and occupy time in a stress-relieving way. For this reason, an intern at the Elizabethton/Carter County Public Library, Anna Woods, created a public adult coloring club.

“Coloring is a good way to relax and stop thinking about stressful things,” said Renita Barksdale, library director. “We have a strong core group of friends who come every week.”

A handful of locals now meet every Thursday between noon and 2 p.m. in the library, and most who have attended got hooked.
Marcie Gordon enjoyed coloring with the group, and encouraged her husband Joe to join.

“Once I decided to come, I really liked it,” he said. “It has helped me cut back on smoking, and it helps me, as a Type A person, to sit and relax and do something without doing much.”

Marcie said it is also a social outlet, and that after coming for weeks, they have developed friendships with others.

“For retirees like us, this gives us a chance to get out, meet new friends and enjoy ourselves without it costing an arm and a leg,” she said.

Lynda Snead, who attends the coloring session each week, said she is usually a relaxed person, but this gives her an opportunity to get out of the house and to enjoy the company of others.

Adult coloring is open to the public, and the library provides supplies.

This is not the only new program that patrons are enjoying. Joe and Marcie said they have also been attending computer classes and plan to attend the crocheting class which will begin next week.

Crocheting will take place on Thursdays from 6:30-7:30 p.m. at the library for beginners and seasoned crocheters. Charlie Workman, a member of library staff, will teach the course. She has years of experience and said she can crochet just about anything from clothes to dolls. She said they will focus on teaching basic skills and creating simpler items like scarfs and afghans.

“The first four weeks will be lessons and the new hope to work it into a club,” Workman said.

Attendees should bring a size “g” hook and yarn needle. Practice yarn will be provided but attendees are encouraged to bring yarn.

“We want this to be a club where people can come and share what they know and just come to the library and have fun,” said Barksdale.