Synth Library Portland, established in 2016, has become a cornerstone of the city's music community, providing a collaborative space where individuals can explore electronic music. Originally part of S1 Portland, the library has transformed its operations to address challenges, reopening after the pandemic with a lending program for electronic instruments. Their model has inspired similar collectives globally but remains vulnerable to economic and political factors. The volunteers have navigated uncharted territory in building a sustainable model, emphasizing community trust and collaboration.
Their story is one that resonates with all artists who are trying to make things happen amidst uncertainty.
The library itself was located at S1 headquarters on Sandy Boulevard, where members could use the library's gear during specified hours.
The transition was not simple. Since something like the Synth Library had never existed before, the volunteers had to figure things out as they went.
Now members could check out the synthesizers, sequencers, stompboxes, MIDI controllers, and other electronic music gear for three weeks at a time to use as they pleased.
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