MADISON – Madison Public Library’s Music Garden, an outdoor space for structured and spontaneous musical expression, has opened with funding help from the inaugural Community Impact Micro Grant from Madison Visionary Partners or MVP in 2023.

Huntsville-Madison County Library Foundation submitted the grant application. The grant amount was $2,500.

“MVP developed (the grants) as a way to give back to the Madison community,” MVP Executive Director Melanie Thornton said. “MVP is happy to support the ongoing efforts of Madison Public Library.”

“We recognize the impact that the library has made, especially in commitment to serve the needs of the youth in our community. We know they have a great outdoor space, and we love to see it utilized,” Thornton said.

Library patrons can stop by and enjoy a moment of musical fun or participate in instruction, relaxing meditations or performances. Youth librarians are discussing possible sessions for musical storytimes.

“The garden is aimed mainly at children, although adults are more than welcome to play, too,” Katie Moore said. Moore is Branch Manager of Madison Public Library. “We located the garden directly outside the children’s play area inside the library so that it will function as an extension of the play space.”

“The garden is also clearly visible through the windows so that it will catch people’s attention,” Moore said. Adjacent to the outdoor patio, the Music Garden will have tables and chairs for seating.

A songbook with several tunes is secured in the garden. Children can learn to play by using musical notation or just playing the correct color chimes.

“Just as the mission of Huntsville-Madison County Public Library states, it’s our goal to provide the residents of the City of Madison opportunities to create, explore and connect. This Music Garden will do just that through the power of sound and music,” Moore said.

Currently, the library is awaiting delivery of the second instrument, a drum set, and then a set of chimes that resemble flowers. To-date, Moore has found percussion-based equipment, but wind instruments aren’t available.

“Thanks to Madison Visionary Partners for their contribution to help bring this new addition to fruition. We cannot wait to see how it grows into the future,” Moore said.

Individuals can donate to Huntsville-Madison County Library Foundation and designate a gift for Madison’s Music Garden. To donate, visit hmcpl.org/give.

For more information about MVP, call 256-384-4358, or visit mvpmadison.org. For the library, call 256-461-0046, or visit hmcpl.org.