Silent disco residency brings music, family fun to Flint library

FLINT, Mich. — Local DJ Gabrielle Davis is turning the Gloria Coles Flint Public Library into an interactive silent disco experience every Wednesday in April.

During the free weekly event, visitors can borrow wireless headphones to listen to Davis’ live mixes while reading, Lego-building, working or simply spending time together inside the library.

Called “Silent Library,” the family-friendly residency takes place during Lego Club from 4:30 to 6 p.m. on the library’s second floor. Participants can also sign up for library cards and learn more about upcoming DJ lessons planned at the library.

For Davis, the residency is both a milestone and return to a place that shaped her childhood.

“It’s honestly full circle,” Davis said. “The days I would hang out at the library after school was a huge part of my life when I was a student at Whittier.”

Silent discos allow guests to listen to music through synced wireless headphones instead of speakers. At the library, visitors check out headphones near the lobby elevator, tune into Davis’ live set through a transmitter and can then move freely throughout the building.

“The best part is that you don’t have to stay within proximity,” Davis said. “You’re able to roam, find a quiet spot and work, read, enjoy Lego-building on the second floor, or just have time alone.”

The event is designed to reintroduce families to the library as a free community gathering space while encouraging literacy and togetherness.

“Quality time and core memories,” Davis said when asked what she hopes families take away from the experience. “I want kids and families to experience the library in a new way that will urge them to come back.”

She added that creating accessible family activities is especially important.

“Family time doesn’t have to be expensive,” she said. “It can be free, enjoyable and beneficial.”

Music selections vary each week based on Davis’ live mixing style. While the first session featured throwback R&B and Hip-Hop, upcoming Wednesdays may include house music, Afrobeats, Motown, soul and 1970s classics.

Davis also plans to offer free introductory DJ lessons at the library for youth and adults. Visitors can scan QR codes on bookmarks available during the event to register.

The lessons will serve as an informal way to explore DJ’ing while helping organizers measure community demand for expanded programming.

Davis also hopes the idea grows beyond April.

“In a perfect world, both,” she said about expanding the program at the library and into other Flint spaces. “I think there’s a need to make it a staple at the library.”

She already imagines future versions at places like the Flint Institute of Arts or the North Flint Food Market.

“To impact and engage the community will remain as the baseline,” Davis said.

Silent Library continues every Wednesday in April from 4:30 to 6 p.m. at the Gloria Coles Flint Public Library, 1026 E. Kearsley St. All ages are welcome, though a parent must accompany children younger than 8.