If you didnt know any better, you might think you were at preschool.
One person sits at a table coloring quietly. At the other end, several containers of Playdough are open; forms take shape at the hands of two friends who are playing and talking. Music plays while another group sits on the other end of the room, playing a game of Uno.
But this isnt preschool and these arent kids: These are adults and theyre at Moscow Public Librarys Timewarp Tuesday.
Timewarp Tuesdays is a weekly program for adults that started in August. With coloring materials, Legos, a marble run, Etch-a-Sketch, spirograph, games and more, its an opportunity to relax and take a break from adulting. And yes, theres even juice boxes and snacks.
Since the program began, response has been positive. Its drawn a number of men and women of all adult ages. Some come alone, some come as a couple or with friends; some stick to themselves and others interact. Theres really no wrong way to participate -- its free time.
Its not structured at all, said Jessica Bowman, the adult services librarian who coordinates the program.
Although some appear uncomfortable the first time they walk in the door, Bowman said, theyre able to find an activity quickly and once they get going, theyre having a good time. Bowman intentionally selected nostalgic childhood activities that will be familiar for many people.
I get a lot of, I really needed that or This is super relaxed, Bowman said.
Socializing isnt required, Bowman said. A person could come and not say a word to anyone the whole evening. That said, its not uncommon for people to begin an activity alone, say coloring, and then transition to a few rounds of Uno before the night is over.
Adult coloring programs are becoming common in libraries; Bowman wanted to add to the concept with some play activities.
I thought it was something I would want to do, Bowman said. She suspected she wasnt the only one -- so far shes been right.
Free adult playtime programs at local libraries include:
Timewarp Tuesdays 7 p.m. Tuesdays Moscow Public Library, 110 S. Jefferson St., Moscow
Cookies, Coloring and Coffee 2 to 4 p.m. every first and third Tuesday Colfax Library
Adult coloring night 6 p.m. last Friday of each month Garfield Library
Just Add Color: Coloring for Adults 5:30 p.m. Sept. 14 and 28, Oct. 12 and 26 Lewiston City Library
Games Unplugged: Board Game Saturday for ages 13 and older 1 p.m. Oct. 1, Nov. 5, Dec. 3 Lewiston City Library
Color Yourself Happy: Adult Coloring Program 6:30 p.m. second Tuesdays Asotin County Library