Although commonly known as a silent shelter for readers and students, the Coppell William T. Cozby Public Library hosted a different type of crowd for a special event. 

On June 14 at 7 p.m., attendees of the library’s seventh “open mic night” were encouraged to showcase their own abilities and support others while they shared, sometimes, an unknown talent.

“My goal is to highlight the talent in Coppell since [performers] may not be able to do an open mic night nearby,” said Coppell library technician and event organizer Carlos Olate. “It is also to have not so much of an intimidating atmosphere. If someone wants to perform live but they are kind of scared to and they just want to practice or do small things to get used to it, this is the perfect place.”

Performers of any age, experience and talent were invited to showcase their musical ability, poetry and unique passions in a family friendly, community setting.

Local spoken word artists, comedians and a jazz artist have previously headlined nights.

Wednesday’s event continued to provide people an atmosphere to bond over the music. Featured acts included a keyboardist and singer.

“The whole purpose is to have people get over a fear of performing if they do want to perform,” Olate said. “I hope it is a network opportunity and also a learning experience.”   

Consider yourself invited for the next open mic night on July 12 at 7 p.m. at the Coppell Public Library, 177 N. Heartz Rd.