Caledon Library hits a new chord with residents

Written By MARK PAVILONS

There's something uniquely appealing about an acoustic guitar and other stringed instruments.

Picked up daily by amateurs and pros alike, guitars have inspired legends with grit and excitement.

Kurt Cobain admitted he never wanted to sing, just play rhythm guitar. And Post Malone said he likes to “be quiet and play guitar and just chill.”

Caledon Public Library (CPL) is hitting the right chords with would-be stars through its new music collection. Set to launch Sept. 28 during Cultural Days, the library will usher in a new era of fostering musical talent for youth and adults.

Through a great partnership with Bolton's Music 21, the Library is offering several guitars and ukeleles on loan. They have six acoustic guitars, six ukuleles and two three-quarter-size guitars available. Grants from the Brampton Caledon Community Foundation and Friends of Caledon Public Library helped get the program off the ground.

Mary Maw, the Library's manager of communications and community development, is excited about the collection, noting it's a great way for people to be introduced to an instrument before laying out the up front costs for equipment. Acoustic guitars and ukuleles tend to be the first kick at the cat for would-be musicians and the Library plans to support local talent all the way.

The Library has been evolving into a cultural hub over the past few years, supporting local authors and artists. As part of the Artful Caledon initiative, the Library is collecting a comprehensive list of local talent and allow them a venue to promote themselves. Now, the CPL has a musical component. Maw is encouraging local musicians to get involved in local programming and help create another comprehensive list of talent across Caledon.

CPL has been introducing non-traditional materials into circulation for several years, including binoculars, blood pressure monitors, pedometers, energy meters and passes to Peel Art Gallery Museum and Archives, Toronto and Region Conservation Authority and Credit Valley Conservation parks. The addition of a circulating musical instrument collection will expand and build upon CPL's role as a sharing institution and supports creativity in the form of harmony and expression of emotion for Caledon residents. CPL believes arts and culture should be celebrated within our communities and made available to everyone, regardless of their means.  Lack of access to affordable musical instruments can often be a potential barrier to young people and this collection will help in that regard.

Studies have shown that children who play musical instruments learn memorization skills, the importance of practice and a new language (reading music is different from reading a book).

Music can help teens identify process and express their emotions.  For those over the age of 50, learning to play a musical instrument is good for body, brain and social life. 

“Free access to musical instruments is one more way that the public library can help to remove obstacles that may prevent people from being able to fully experience and engage with the arts and culture within our community,” said Megan Renkema, manager of information services at the local library. “It is the library's hope that having this collection of instruments and offering related programs and books will open doors for those who may not have otherwise had the opportunity to experience the pleasure of music.”

The musical collection is housed at the Albion Bolton branch with an option of having them sent to other branches in Caledon.

The Library's mission is to be a vital service and vibrant community space for all ages and a hub for discovery, innovation and inspiration.

The Library hopes to complement the instrument loan program with visits by local music teachers and even bands. Jams and sessions maybe part of the program in the future as it continues to grow.

All you need is an interest and a library card.

This is just one aspect of the new-look CPL, which is growing exponentially to adapt to today's needs in a digital environment. The stage is set for some great things to come and promoting local talent is just one aspect of the Library's role in the community.

“That one guitar, felt good in his hands ...” according to Foreigner's Juke Box Hero. Those who play, or long to play, fully understand that.

If you'd like more information or help in some way, contact Maw at [email protected] or call 905-857-1400 Ext. 228