The following article was written by Betty Schwede, a Youth Services Librarian at the Manitowoc Public Library.
As communities across the country gear up to celebrate America’s 250th Anniversary, Manitowoc Public Library is calling on local kids and teens to help paint the town Red, White, and Blue during this year’s Paint the Library Windows event! Held alongside the community’s Fourth of July festivities, this beloved tradition will transform the library into a patriotic masterpiece just in time for the holiday parade.
Young artists are invited to show off their creativity with stars, stripes, fireworks, eagles, historic symbols, and all things Americana as the nation begins its countdown to the USA 250 celebration. Whether you dream up a soaring bald eagle, a dazzling fireworks display, or a tribute to freedom and community spirit, your artwork can become part of this colorful community tradition.
No registration is needed—just bring your imagination and get ready to paint! Lineup begins at 1:30 PM along Franklin Street, with red, white, and blue paint and brushes handed out starting promptly at 2 PM. Participants should wear paint-friendly clothes and be ready for an afternoon packed with patriotic fun.
To keep the event safe and accessible for everyone, participants are asked not to bring stools or ladders. All painting spaces will be reachable from ground level. Sidewalk chalk will also be available so artists can spread even more patriotic flair around the library grounds.
Because the event takes place outdoors, Paint the Library will be canceled if it rains.
Can’t make it on July 1? You can still join the celebration! Stop by the library to pick up a poster board and create your own red, white, and blue masterpiece at home using crayons, markers, paint, glitter, or glued-on decorations. Return your artwork by July 1, and the library will proudly display it in the windows for the community to enjoy.
Betty Schwede
Paint the Library is more than just an art activity—it’s a chance for local youth to celebrate Independence Day, honor America’s upcoming 250th birthday, and leave their creative mark on Downtown Manitowoc.
And the summer fun doesn’t stop there! Families can also enjoy an exciting lineup of events at the library, including:
- June 16 at 10 AM, 2 PM, or 6 PM—Bingo Bash for all ages (please attend only one session)
- June 17 at 2 PM—Bubble Bash on the lawn (bring a towel and goggles!)
- June 30 at 5:30 PM—Patriotic Parade
- July 15 from 10 AM–Noon—Touch the Trucks
- July 22 at 2 PM—Let’s Get Ready to . . . Raptor!
- July 29 at 2 PM—Sean the Mammoth Hunter
- August 3 at 2 PM—How to Train a Dragon!
- August 5 at 2 PM — Lincoln Park Zoo with Hide and Seek
Plus, even more activities for kids and teens all summer long!
So, grab your friends, unleash your creativity, and help the community celebrate 250 years of American history—one colorful window at a time!
