The Lafayette Public Library is now loaning out musical instruments.
The library launched its M.I. Brary (Musical Instrument Library) program Monday July 2, 2018, at its Clifton Chenier Center branch. It is the only music instrument library of its kind in the south and it allows budding musicians to borrow accordions, fiddles, banjos, and guitars.
Ryan Cazares started the project last year in an effort to help these budding musicians kick start their learning in a easily accessible environment.
"I’m a musician, so I know there can be barriers to playing musical instruments, mostly cost. So this kind of removes this barrier and allows people to try an instrument before they buy it," says Cazares.
He received a grant to bring this idea to life in August 2017 and with help from volunteers, word spread quickly.
"We jumped in to help Ryan’s dream become reality because we’re in the business of circulating things. It doesn’t matter if it’s books or instruments," says Teresa Elberson.
Instruments can be checked out and returned at the Chenier Branch on Monday through Thursday from 1:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. and Friday from 1:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.
To see a full list of the musical instruments available, visit http://lafayettepubliclibrary.org/mibrary
