Turns the Tables DJ Lab and Concert Series

About the Program

Category: Libraries (Best in Category)

Year: 2018

LA County Library's Turns the Tables series is a free 9-week DJ lab for beginners, age 15 to 21. Participants learn essential DJ skills and receive small business training from a professional instructor, utilizing STEAM and developing digital and musical literacies, in a safe, collaborative environment. A free community concert concludes the course; students showcase their skills and receive feedback from industry DJs. Launched in Compton in February 2017, the program intended to counteract stigmas of violence and poverty faced by the community, offering young residents an opportunity to create art through music while increasing their job opportunities. Following this successful debut, the program expanded to South Whittier (September 2017), San Fernando (January 2018), and East Los Angeles (May 2018), with additional locations coming soon. The series aims to inspire a future generation of creators, providing the skills necessary to launch successful careers. In addition to providing classroom learning opportunities, the Library has booked program graduates to perform at library and local arts events, providing paid work experiences. Some students have purchased turntable sets, to begin practicing professionally. Due to positive reception, the Library has received funding to expand to new locations, including its mobile maker spaces, creating a DJ-lab-on-the-go.