Borrow a musical instrument for free at your local library
27 April 2026
You can now borrow a musical instrument for FREE with your Midlothian library membership. Perfect for complete beginners, virtuosos and everyone in between.
The Musical Instrument Library is part of a Scotland-wide initiative led by We Make Music. From brass to strings and more, whether you’re a complete beginner or a returning musician, this is a way to explore music at your own pace.
What you can borrow
There are instruments available from every musical family:
- Strings
- Woodwinds
- Brass
- Percussion
- Keyboards
How to borrow instruments
Instruments are available in the Newtongrange and Penicuik Library branches.
You can visit a library branch to explore the instruments in-person before borrowing, or reserve an instrument through the Midlothian Libraries online catalogue for collection.
Benefits of creativity and music
Playing a musical instrument can have a range of benefits for your physical and mental wellbeing, for example:
- Reducing stress and anxiety by promoting relaxation and self-expression
- Strengthening memory through regular practice
- Improving mood through a sense of enjoyment
- Supporting mindfulness and being in the present
Continuing to keep learning is also one of the Five Ways to Wellbeing.