You can now rent musical instruments from the Calgary Public Library

Want to play an instrument but can’t afford to buy one? Or have an interest in playing but want to try it out before you buy?

Well you’re in luck!

The first ever musical instrument lending library in Alberta has opened in Calgary thanks to a partnership between Sun Life Financial and the Calgary Public Library Foundation.

The Sun Life Financial Musical Instrument Lending Library program started in Toronto in 2016, with subsequent locations opening in Vancouver and Montreal, and now it’s fourth location here.

Calgary’s instrument library will be housed at the Memorial Park Library with Sun Life Financial donating $140,000 as well as 150 instruments and accessories including guitars, ukuleles, violins, drums, xylophones and portable keyboards.

“Music can have a profound impact on a person’s life and being able to share and make music is something everyone deserves to experience,” said Assistant Vice-President, Philanthropy and Sponsorships at Sun Life Financial, Paul Joliat. “At Sun Life, we understand the importance of building healthy, sustainable communities and we are thrilled to be able to increase access to music through this program.”

The Library will also be holding a Musical Instrument Donation Drive running from June 1 to July 1. Calgarians may drop off their donations at Memorial Park Library (1221 2nd Street SW) and at Long & McQuade (225 58 Avenue SE). Check out the instrument wish list and more information online.

With such a cool program you can be sure to see some wait times to borrow an instrument.