Instrument Lending
The library owns ukuleles and dulcimers which may be borrowed by anyone with a valid NWRLS library card, from any branch. The loan period is three weeks. Each instrument also comes with a tuner. You can search the library catalog for “ukulele” or “dulcimer” to see if we have instruments in stock or to place a request. The dulcimers were funded by the Panhandle Library Access Network and the ukuleles were funded through generous donations from the Ukulele Orchestra of St. Andrews and the Friends of the Bay County Public Libraries.
ArtistWorks
ArtistWorks provides hundreds of free music lessons, taught by professional musicians. Instruments include: piano, flute, clarinet, trumpet, mandolin, banjo, ukulele, and many more! Lessons range from beginner to advanced. The short video lessons can be viewed as many times as you like. To access ArtistWorks from a desktop or laptop computer, visit www.libbyapp.com and follow the instructions found here. To access ArtistWorks from a mobile device, install the Libby, by OverDrive app. Instructions for setting up the app with your library account can be found here. Sponsored by the Ukulele Orchestra of St. Andrews.
Library staff can schedule a one-on-one Book-A-Librarian session to help you set up your device to use ArtistWorks if you need assistance. Please call the Bay County Public Library Reference Department for details, 850-522-2107.
Book-A-Musician
Individuals or small groups wanting to learn to play the ukulele or dulcimer can schedule a one-hour session with an instrument tutor at the Bay County Public Library. The session provides an introduction to the instrument for beginners. Bring your own instrument or one will be provided. Learn about the instrument, how to hold it, how to strum, how to tune, and learn to play a song. Contact Sarah at sburris@nwrls.com or call 850-522-2120 to schedule!
Ukulele Social Club
Ukulele Social Club is resuming on the first Saturday of the month at 10 – 11:30 a.m. CT at the Bay County Public Library. The first part of the class is for beginner basics. The second part is for jammin’! We will have a few loaner instruments available, but you are encouraged to bring your own.
11th Street Mountain Dulcimer Practice
The 11th Street Mountain Dulcimers practice is usually on the third Friday of the month at 2 p.m. at the Bay County Public Library. The first 1/2 hour will be a beginner song and introduction for new dulcimer players. Spare instruments are available. The rest is a regular practice where anyone new is welcome to stay. The class is hybrid in person in the Youth Services Program Room and through Zoom. Email sburris@nwrls.com for the PDF of songs and Zoom invitation.
The Ukulele Orchestra of St. Andrews made a $10,000 donation in December 2018 to enhance music programming. Thank you UOSA for supporting music appreciation and education in our communities!