Green Hills branch is closed for a full renovation.
Raise Your Voice
NPL encourages Library patrons to make a joyful noise
In a city where you can hear live music just about everywhere — from honky tonks to street corners to yogurt shops — why not the Library?
Why not, indeed?
NPL librarian Ashley Armstrong was of this mind when she cam
e up with Quiet in the Library Open Mic, a free, live music showcase for all-comers.
She launched the program at the Green Hills branch a year ago with just a portable sound system, a spare guitar and keyboard, and a clipboard sign-up sheet. Since then, it has struck a chord with Library patrons, with a wide array of music lovers taking part.
“The Library is the last place you might expect to find an open mic event,” Ashley said. “But Library patrons are already coming to branches for free music lessons and checking out instruments from the Library of Things. It just made sense to create a space for them to perform and listen to live music.”
Quiet in the Library Open Mic is open to people of all experience levels to play, sing, or perform spoken word — no library card (or record deal) required.
Original songs and cover tunes, Ashley said, are equally encouraged. From ukulele pop songs to improvisational rap to Americana rock, the lineup is always eclectic and ever-changing.
And despite the program’s name, some of the performances can get a little bit — dare we say it? — loud.
“If you haven’t been to the Library in a while you might think that we are still shushing people and maintaining silence, but that’s not the case,” Ashley said. “This is just another way the Library is creating spaces for Nashvillians to learn, grow, and build community.”
Quiet in the Library Open Mic rotates to a different NPL branch on the first Saturday of each month (see schedule below).
Ashley facilitates the program with co-host Harlow Crandall, an archive assistant at MTSU’s Center for Popular Music.
Harlow is active in the local music scene and said he knows the pressure that comes with open mic nights in Music City.
“Quiet in the Library is one of the few open mics in Nashville where anyone can participate without spending money,” Harlow said. “It's become a welcoming place for musicians who are just starting out or returning to the stage.”
Questions? Reach out to ashley.armstrong@nashville.gov
Quiet in the Library Open Mic Turns One
The August installment of Quiet in the Library Open Mic is Saturday, Aug. 1, 2-4 p.m. on the third floor of the Main Library, 615 Church St., downtown Nashville.
Come celebrate the program’s one-year anniversary with live music and refreshments.
Want to perform? Sign up when you arrive or email Ashley.armstrong@nashville.gov to reserve your spot in advance.
Park next door at McKendree Garage for up to 90 minutes for a discounted rate of $4.00. Don’t forget to scan the QR code in the garage. Then scan a second QR code at the circulation desk to receive the discount.
WeGo Public Transit is also a great way to get downtown.
2026 SCHEDULE
Quiet in the Library Open Mic takes place on the first Saturday of every month, 2–4 p.m. at a different NPL branch. It is free and open to the public.
Typically 12 people perform one to two songs each. Instruments may be provided or you can bring your own. Sign up to perform when you arrive, or just stay and listen. Refreshments provided.
Co-sponsored by MTSU’s Center for Popular Music.
Aug. 1 - Main (1-year anniversary event)
Sept. 5 - Madison
Oct. 3 - East
Nov. 7 - Bordeaux
Dec. 5 - North
