San Francisco's music scene is legendary, yet as corporate consolidation has homogenized the commercial radio landscape, and streaming services like Spotify and Apple Music prioritize popular artists, many Bay Area bands struggle to reach an audience; and listeners have to work harder to discover music outside of the mainstream.

Community radio stations like BFF.fm have long been a beacon of support for local and independent musicians. But now, The San Francisco Public Library has teamed up with independent music retailer, Amoeba Music, to create a new way to discover local music, Bay Beats.

Starting sometime this fall, music lovers will be able to stream music by local artists and bands on any device that has internet access. Library cardholders will also be able to download the music. Bay Beats will feature a wide range of genres, from hip-hop and electronic music to indie rock and jazz.

Bay Beats will be accepting music submissions from this Monday, May 1 through Monday, July 31 for its initial launch.  View submission guidelines here. Selected bands will receive a $250 honorarium for non-exclusive use of their music.

With Bay Beats, the library is not only supporting the local music scene but also contributing to the cultural diversity and richness of the community. You love to see it!