Instruments now available to borrow from Regina libraries

Musical instruments can now be added to the long list of things people can borrow from the Regina Public Library (RPL).

The musical instrument lending library program, which was launched on Friday, allows anyone with an RPL account to have access to everything from a banjo to a portable piano for up to three weeks — just like a book.

“It’s going to give the youth and adults of the city, who can’t necessarily afford musical instruments, the opportunity to come and try out the guitars or violins or xylophones or whatever,” explained Sean Quinlan, RPL board of directors chair.

He added instruments and instructional videos are available to borrow from the Central and Sherwood library branches, and the downtown location also has a new edit suite equipped with software that allows people to produce their music.

Saskatoon rock band The Sheepdogs donated three signed Gibson Les Paul electric guitars to the program. Lead singer and guitarist Ewan Currie said the band’s happy to contribute.

“I was a young, restless man and to sink my energies into learning an instrument and develop creativity, it was a lot of fun,” remembered Currie. “I think the chance to try something and then try another thing without having to commit several hundred dollars is very important.”

Sun Life Financial has donated 150 instruments and $140,000 to the program.

Anyone wishing to donate new or gently used guitars, banjos, mandolins, ukuleles, violins, drums or portable keyboards can drop them off at the Central library or Long & McQuade until June 15.

Regina is the eighth Canadian city to launch a musical instrument lending library program.