In the same way that many people are unable to buy every book they’d like to read and can count on libraries as a borrowing source, Joe’s M.I.L.L. (Musical Instrument Lending Library) in Kingston is supporting emerging musicians by lending out musical instruments to help them find their way into the world of music.
Instruments, sheet music, amplifiers and other musical tools are available for loan, free of charge, thanks to this library – and sometimes the organization has donated instruments, including 15 instruments delivered to the Tyendinaga Mohawk Nation in the Bay of Quinte, which helped enable the community to create their own library on site.
In order to fund the expansion of their program and to continue serving our community, Joe’s M.I.L.L. has embarked upon a fund-raising campaign through the crowd-sourcing service Indiegogo.
The money raised will pay for a new library location, technology updates, as well as shelving, hardware and a music-themed donor wall. Their funding goal is $30,000 and the campaign runs through to December 12, 2014.
Because people don’t know which instrument might be a good fit for them, the Joe Chithalen Memorial Musical Instrument Lending Library – named after the late, talented bass player Joe Chithalen – provides a valuable service in providing access to instruments for burgeoning musicians.
There are over 750 musical instruments available for loan. The borrower pays nothing and volunteers run the charity, keeping overhead low.
Some people with a love and gift for music will never be able to put their energies toward developing their talent without the help of this library. The lending library also provides music outreach through workshops, music appreciation events and other music opportunities that no other local organization provides.
To contribute to this campaign, or find out more about how to get involved, visit the Joe’s M.I.L.L. Indiegogo page or the Joe’s M.I.L.L. website.
Learn more about Joe’s M.I.L.L. in this City of Kingston video created by ‘Station 14’.
Image: Joe’s M.I.L.L. | Video: Station 14
