Musical Instruments FAQ
Find quick answers to frequently asked questions about our about our musical instrument lending library.
What instruments are in the collection?
Currently, there are a variety of stringed instruments such as acoustic guitars (nylon-stringed & steel-stringed in various sizes), acoustic bass guitars, violins (various sizes), ukuleles (various sizes), mandolins, and banjos in the collection, as well as a selection of drums such as bongos, cajons, doumbeks, djembes, frame and steel tongue drums. There are also electric guitars (with amplifiers), digital pianos and keyboards as well as glockenspiels, tambourines and kalimbas. Find a full list of instruments here.
What do I need to borrow an instrument?
You need a VPL library card in good standing (i.e. outstanding fines/charges less than $10).
Note that instruments are not available for loan to Access cardholders, Subscription cardholders, or Visitor cardholders.
Do I have to pay to borrow an instrument?
Borrowing an instrument is free. Like other library materials, there are charges for lost or damaged instruments, containers and accessories. See Limits, Holds and Charges for details.
How many instruments can I borrow?
You can borrow one instrument at a time.
How long is the loan period? Can I renew the instrument?
The loan period is 21 days. If no one has requested that instrument, you may renew for an additional 21 days. There is a limit of 3 renewals.
Where do I go to get an instrument?
Instruments are kept at the Central Library. If you know which instrument you want to borrow and the library catalogue says it is IN, go to the service desk at the entrance of the Central Library. If you need help to search the catalogue or determine what to ask for, talk to our staff.
Where do I return the instrument?
Instruments must be returned to the Service Desk at Central Library during open hours.
Where can I get help learning how to play an instrument?
There are books, DVDs, etc. in the library collection that can help you learn to play the instrument. Ask library staff or have a look at our Musical Instruments subject guide.
Can I place a hold on an instrument that is currently on loan?
Yes. Since you can only borrow one instrument at a time use the pause feature of the catalogue to manage your instrument holds. When you are notified that the instrument is ready for pick up, you will need to come to the Central Library.
What happens if I damage or lose the instrument I borrowed?
As with other library materials borrowed, you are responsible for musical instruments borrowed on your card and for any charges on items that are lost or damaged. See Limits, Holds and Charges for details.
Do you accept donations of instruments?
We are not accepting instrument donations at this time.