Check out a ukulele with your library card

KAMLOOPS– You can now borrow a ukulele from the Thompson-Nicola Regional Library (TNRL) for free, all you need is a library card.

Branching off the library’s guitar lending program and partnership with Riversong Guitars, library users will now be able to take out one of the 30 ukuleles available, for up to six weeks at a time.

“We’ve had such an amazing guitar lending initiative since April, and it just seemed like a natural extension. Ukuleles are somewhat less expensive, [and] even more portable,” Judy Moore, TNRL chief librarian said.

“Ukuleles I think are a bit more accessible than guitars for people who really want to get started playing a musical instrument.”

Each of the Riversong instruments is made of either mahogany or ebony and equipped with the company’s signature adjustable neck.

Tina Hebner, a local ukulelist and current musician in residence at the library, told CFJC News providing a higher-quality instrument gives beginner players the best chance to succeed.

“This gives people an opportunity to try an instrument that’s set up really well, that’s easy on the hands. Both [Riversong] ukuleles and guitars – I’ve tried them and they are comfortable to play,” Hebner said.

“It doesn’t mean that a low-cost instrument isn’t a good one but this just gives them a better opportunity.”

Residents can put a hold on a ukulele online or check it out at any of the 12 TNRL locations.