Patricia Kjolhede combines storytelling and rock ‘n’ roll for children at the Delta Twp. Library

A retired schoolteacher has taken to rocking the room for education.

Part of the Libraries Rock theme, Patricia Kjolhede is bringing her “Tunes N Tales” songwriting act to the Delta Township Library, to inspire children to learn and participate in music making.

“I am a retired schoolteacher, so I do this for my peace of mind and the love of it really,” said Kjolhede. “I was a classroom teacher and having the guitar in the classroom was an extension of my teaching. It was sort of a natural sort of thing for me to do.”

Retired since 2010, Kjolhede used this method to teach kids since 2002 with success. “I start with something that warms them up like a zipper song where the kids add verses or words and kind of join in with the song. Automatically, it is sort of a warmup thing,” said Kjolhede.

Then the audience starts to be a part of the show, said Kjolhede. “When I build their confidence that way, I move on to a storytelling part of the program. I can usually find some volunteers who will become part of the next story by becoming characters,” said Kjolhede.

Young kids deserve more credit as capable learners and musicians, said Kjolhede. “I specialize in really young children, and a lot of people consider the younger kids not really ready for what I do. I find quite the opposite — the younger kids are very ready for what I do,” said Kjolhede.

“That's what I like about playing in front of the younger kids, they are just so willing to take risks.”

Patricia Kjolhede, “Tunes N Tales”

2 p.m.

Monday, July 21

Delta Township Library

5130 Davenport Dr., Lansing

2 p.m.

Additional show

7 p.m.

Tuesday, July 24

Valley Park Court

280 Valley Court, East Lansing