The Free Library offers a plentiful amount of resources that are easily accessible for citizens of Philadelphia. As a result, the Library enriches individual’s worldly knowledge, increases their exposure to new information, and encourages exploration of the resources around them. We all know the Library contains thousnads of books; many may not realize the impressive amount of music that is also available in the Library!

As I browsed the Music Department at Parkway Central, I was pleased to find that there was a large selection of independent and alternative artists featured on the shelves. As an avid music listener, I was eager to check out and give a listen to a variety of these albums.

One of these artists included Scottish band Belle and Sebastian. Reminiscent of '60s and '70s folk, the band's meaningful lyrics and contagious ditties will cause any listener to tap their foot. Although the band’s expansive discography can be daunting, the Library carries some of the duo's best albums, including Write About Love and The Life Pursuit.

There is also the strange and danceable pop band Of Montreal. Beginning in the late '90s, Of Montreal combines thoughtful lyrics with psychedelic undertones to create interesting and rich sounds. Of Montreal’s impressive use of metaphor and imagery drew me to them immediately. I was ecstatic to find that the Library carries their 2012 album, Paralytic Stalks, as well as the 2008 album, Skeletal Lamping.

Some other noteworthy alternative / independent artists available in Free Library's music collections are Pavement, St. Vincent, Grizzly Bear, Elliott Smith, Neutral Milk Hotel, and Sufjan Stevens.

Check out this Spotify playlist and if you like what you hear, subscribe to the Free Library's Spotify channel for more great music from our collections!