Hennepin County Library’s Vinyl Revival Gets Creative
Does a vinyl revival need a tent? Could vinyl records be having a revival? If you don’t have your own collection at home, Hennepin County Library can help.
“Vinyl Revival is a series here at Hennepin County Library. Artist residencies, listening opportunities, programs events all centered around vinyl. Our vinyl collection here at Hennepin County is being highlighted,” said Russ Johnson, Hennepin County librarian in charge of the “Vinyl Revival” team.
If you’re a music fan of music that was pressed on vinyl, these are programs you may be interested in.
”Back in 2019 is when it began, then when libraries were open. It was a way to access our vast collection of vinyl records. Which had been sitting untouched for years,” said Johnson.
Vinyl listening room at Hennepin County Central Library
They even created a vinyl listening room. This has since become Johnson’s office. Over the last year the programs have taken on a more digital presence.
Album Encounters
One of the interesting online offerings each month is called Album Encounters.
“It’s one way we kept vinyl appreciation going,” said Johnson.
Think of it as sort of an online book club for music lovers. At one recent session, people listed to the album “Trio” by Dolly Parton, Emmylou Harris, and Linda Ronstadt. Then, they talked about it.
Johnson says participants can discuss everything from song content to where the artists were in their careers at the time.
“It’s just a way where people can learn about the music, learn about an artist, maybe one they weren’t more familiar with. We have an album every month. Usually the third Thursday of every month,” said Johnson.
The Vinyl Revival team is made up of eleven people who share a love for music and the vinyl it came on. Someday, the listening room will be open and the vinyl collection will be accessible to the public.
Future Events
With warmer weather ahead, Johnson hopes to take some Vinyl Revival pop-up DJ parties out on the road.
“We pop up with our whole DJ set up. We bring a bunch of vinyl albums in tow,” said Johnson.
Keep watch on the Hennepin County Library website for a future event near you. Learn more here.
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