Unexpected surge in attendance and interest at the newly established vinyl club within the Free Library of Philadelphia
The Free Library of Philadelphia's Vinyl Club, a popular gathering for music enthusiasts, held its June session last Wednesday in celebration of African American Music Appreciation Month. The event, which takes place every last Wednesday of the month from 5:30 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., was hosted at the Music Department in the Vine Street Main Branch.
Raquel Davis, a regular attendee, kicked off the session with the opening track "Reasons" from "Perfect Angel" by Minnie Riperton. Raquel found the album in a Philadelphia flea market and brought it along to share with fellow vinyl lovers. Her selection was met with positive feedback, reflecting the community's shared love for music.
Viviana M, an attendee who heard about the vinyl club through the library's Instagram page, also shared a track. She played "Stir It Up" by Patti LaBelle from the vinyl copy of the "Beverly Hills Cop" soundtrack. Corey Williams, who attended the first session, brought his vinyl copy of "Sour Soul" by Ghostface Killah to share as well.
The Vinyl Club, initiated by librarian Jane Lippman due to the success of other library programs, provides an opportunity for guests to bring records from their own collections or enjoy a librarian-curated journey through the library’s extensive vinyl archive. The club has been well received, with attendees sharing their passion for vinyl and music around a themed listening session.
Juan Witmer and his father, Douglas, were among the attendees at the June meeting. They expressed their excitement about the unique experience, which brings together music lovers from all walks of life.
For those interested in joining the Vinyl Club or staying updated on upcoming sessions, the Free Library's website provides the opportunity to sign up for their email list[1]. The club may extend session times if interest continues to grow[1].
[1] The Free Library of Philadelphia's Vinyl Club: https://www.freelibrary.org/vinyl-club
- After the successful June session of The Free Library of Philadelphia's Vinyl Club, attendees are encouraged to check the library's website to sign up for the email list and stay updated on future themed listening sessions in the home-and-garden-like ambiance of the Music Department.
- As the interest in the Vinyl Club continues to grow, eager music enthusiasts may even look forward to extended session times, transforming their Wednesday evenings into a lifestyle fondly embracing entertainment, music, and home-and-garden camaraderie.
