Rocker launches libraries’ instrument program

HALIFAX — Nova Scotia rocker Joel Plaskett says the library was always a source of inspiration for his music, and he hopes a new program that allows the public to borrow instruments will help encourage more musicians in Halifax.

Plaskett attended the launch of the Sun Life Financial Musical Instrument Lending Library program on Wednesday. It allows anyone with a library card to borrow instruments — including guitars, banjos and drums — from any of the Halifax public libraries.

Speaking from the Alderney Gate Public Library in Dartmouth, Plaskett said he grew up borrowing recorded music from the library, which inspired his songwriting. But he lived in a musical household where he had access to a variety of instruments, and he recognized that most people don’t have that option. The library program will allow the public to easily explore instruments without having to shell out a lot of money to buy or rent gear, Plaskett said.

“To me, it kind of levels the access point. Fundamentally, that’s what the library is all about. With books, it’s a way to educate yourself for free. Music is a part of education,” Plaskett said.

“People use music for all sorts of reasons, sometimes as a career, and it became a career for me because it’s what I knew how to do. But I do think having access is the beginning of a way to fall in love with playing and to teach yourself something and to challenge your brain and use your heart.”

The instruments will be stored at the Alderney Gate Public Library, but are accessible from any library.