Liberty Graphics, a Midcoast Maine-based screenprinting business specializing in nature and science-themed T-shirts, has recently become an employee-owned cooperative. Worker cooperatives are equally owned and governed by employees, who also earn money from the profits of their labor. Liberty Graphics joins the growing number of employee-owned Maine businesses, such as Johnny’s Seeds, Cianbro, Revision Energy, Clark Insurance, and many others, according to Liberty Graphics, in a news release.

“Liberty Graphics was founded in 1977 by Tom Opper, and over the years has become the quintessential Maine small business,” said the company, in a news release. “For decades now, the company has provided high quality T-shirts to parks, zoos, museums, planetariums, aquariums, and various other nature centers across America and beyond.”

Liberty Graphics’ products can be found at their retail outlet in Liberty Village, Liberty Graphics Company Store in Portland’s Old Port, and a newly-opened location in downtown Camden.

“Their retail website (naturetshirts.com) has quickly become an essential avenue for nature and wildlife enthusiasts nationwide,” said the company. “Liberty Graphics tees can be seen everywhere from local fairs to Hollywood movies and TV shows. From their early days, Liberty Graphics has used only water-based ink in their printing process. PVC-free water-based ink provides a healthy workplace and gives customers a soft-to-the-hand garment.”