Teenage girls who need a dress for a winter dance can get a free one through a Johnson County Public Library event.
The Franklin branch is hosting a winter dress giveaway this weekend.
Kelly Staten, adult and teens services librarian, tells you what you need to know.
When and where is it?
The Winter Formal Pop-Up shop will be 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday at the Franklin Branch of the Johnson County Public Library, 401 State St.
How many do you have?
We have quite a few — probably around 100.
How does it work?
We will have all the winter formal style dresses set up in the library’s community room, along with dressing rooms. Teens can come by that Saturday, browse what we have, try it on and if they like it, take it home to wear to their dance.
Who can come?
The program is open to any middle or high school student that needs formal wear for their winter dance.
How many people are you expecting?
We had around 50 people come out for the Homecoming Pop Up shop, so I’m expecting about the same amount for this program as well.
How much do the dresses cost?
All dresses are free! They are donated to us and we provide them at no cost to anyone who needs one.
How did you get the idea?
We have lots of dresses donated for our Project Prom program (which is held in the spring) that look more like homecoming and winter formal dresses. They are nice dresses but maybe not what teens are looking for to wear to prom, so instead of donating elsewhere, we are testing out “pop-up shops” for homecoming and winter formal to try to help out teens around that time of year who may need something to wear.
How can I donate a dress?
All JCPL branch locations accept donations year round. Please only donate current style (last three to four years) and in gently used, clean condition. No wedding dresses, but we do accept tuxes or suits for the guys!
