Buffalo & Erie County Public Library spins back into vinyl

‘Spin It Forward’ campaign launches to revitalize vinyl record collection for first time since 1989

Buffalo & Erie County Public Library Press Release

In recognition of National Vinyl Record Day (Aug. 12), the Buffalo & Erie County Public Library, in partnership with BTPM “The Bridge,” is launching “Spin It Forward” – an ongoing donation drive to rebuild the library’s vinyl collection for the first time since 1989. While the Central Library still houses a borrowable vinyl archive, no new additions have been made in over three decades.

In a January survey conducted by the Vinyl Alliance, among over 2,500 vinyl fans aged roughly 18-24, it was reported that 80% of surveyed Gen Z vinyl fans own a record player or turntable, and 76% reported buying a vinyl record at least once per month. People of all ages are patrons at Buffalo & Erie County Public Library – including Gen Z. This campaign aims to provide a spotlight for the enduring power of analog music, and celebrate Buffalo’s vibrant music scene.

“Spin It Forward” encourages the public to donate new vinyl records of popular music released after 1989, and to support local, independent record stores across Western New York. It also invites local musicians and bands who press on vinyl to donate their work – ensuring the archive reflects the evolving sound of Buffalo and Erie County.

The first donation, “The Villain,” was generously donated by musician Mal Blum, who played Babeville’s 9th Ward on July 29.

WHEN & WHERE

While this celebration of the collection recognizes National Vinyl Record Day (Aug. 12), donations will be accepted on a rolling basis – similar to books. Records can be dropped off at any Buffalo & Erie County Public Library branch.

For those who aren’t able to purchase a record, they can donate at this link. The library will utilize funds raised to purchase vinyl records at local record stores for the collection.

Supporters are encouraged to share their donations using #SpinItForward.

How to donate

Vinyl should be new, or gently used, and popular music published after 1989.

Organizers said, “As our community’s archives, we also accept any local band’s music pressed on vinyl to preserve Western New York’s music heritage.”

All donations are subject to the Buffalo & Erie County Public Library gift and donor recognition policy.

Why it matters

Vinyl is growing in popularity – but Buffalo’s public library collection hasn’t kept pace, and stopped collecting with the introduction of cassettes and compact discs. The library’s vinyl collection currently stands at 18,000 records – popular vinyl records available for checkout, as well as those open to viewing/listening in the library (the latter considered part of the rare collections).

“Spin It Forward” bridges generations, celebrates music as a civic and cultural force, and connects analog lovers with a reimagined collection that reflects both classic and contemporary sounds.

The Buffalo & Erie County Public Library encourages the community to also check out its rich pre-1989 music collection, available for borrowing.

Buffalo & Erie County Public Libraries have more than 3.2 million materials – books, e-books, DVDs and music. Free library cards (traditional and eLibrary) are available to Erie County residents and to those who work and/or attend school in Erie County. Follow the library on Facebook, X/Twitter, Instagram, Pinterest, Flickr and via podcast: All Booked Up! Call 716-858-8900 or visit http://www.buffalolib.org.