Check Out the Musical Instrument Library (M.I.Brary)!

You can now check out a guitar, keyboard, or even an accordion the same way you would a book at the Chenier Branch of the Lafayette Public Library!

Who knows — maybe we’ll be reading about you next!

Here’s how it works:

• Browse our musical instrument inventory in the library’s catalog
• Check out whichever instrument you like for 28 days
• Rock it or knock it!
• When the time is up, return your instrument in its best condition
• Try another instrument to see how it fits

Check-Out Rules:

* Instruments cannot be put on hold. To check the availability of an instrument you can search the online catalog. To reserve an available item for pick up later that same day you must call the Chenier Branch Library at (337) 291-2941.

Instruments can be checked out and returned to the Chenier Branch Library between 10:00 am – 12:00 pm and 3:00 pm – 6:00 pm, Monday through Friday. If another time is needed, please call (337) 291-2941 to make special arrangements.

* You must be 16 years or older and have a Lafayette Public Library card in good standing to check out an instrument.

* You are limited to checking out one instrument.

* Checkout is for 28 days and instruments cannot be renewed.

* The fine for a late instrument is $1.00 per day with a 3-day grace period. If returned after the grace period, fines accumulate from the original due date.

* You will be asked to sign a lending agreement and supply your current contact information. By checking out the instrument you assume responsibility for any loss, theft or damage to the item.

* You must returned the instrument in person to the Chenier Branch Library and have it checked in by the Chenier Branch Staff. Instruments cannot be returned in the book drop or at another location.

To view all of the musical instruments that will be available from the M.I.Brary, click here.

How did this all start?

Dr. Ryan Cazares formed a team to help him pitch this one-of-a-kind idea to a panel of investors at Civicside’s 24-hour Citizen Project event in July of 2017. “Imagine,” he said, “if there’s a Grammy award winner sitting right here with us, but they don’t even know it because they don’t have the money to purchase an instrument.” With that, the team was granted start up funds to stock up on an assortment of instruments to be enjoyed, free of charge, by members of the local community.