This summer, 109ers can help preserve North Texas’ musical culture – at the library.

The Fort Worth Library’s 3rd Thursday Jazz Series, currently in its fifth season, features local and international artists that perform a broad variety of musical styles. The free performances are held at 6:30 p.m. the third Thursday of each month in the gallery of the Central Library.

Chris Dennis, communications manager for the library, said the series was designed to preserve the vibrant musical culture of North Texas.

“Fort Worth has a rich musical heritage, and many people want to connect with that tradition,” he said. “Jazz is a uniquely American art form, and we believe it’s essential for people to have the opportunity to hear the music performed live.”

To transform the library into a haven of jazz, volunteers move a lot of furniture to make room for the large amount of attendees, Dennis said. The average attendance is between 500 and 700 people.

Past series have included performances by some of the biggest names in jazz like pianist Fred Hersch, trombonist Robin Eubanks and bassist Paul Unger, Dennis said.

“For me, this is a labor of love,” he said. “People in North Texas love quality music and the arts, and they also love their libraries.”

The series begins May 15 with a featured performance by Grammy-winning trumpeter Nicholas Payton.

Payton’s performance, along with other upcoming performances, are available at YouTube Jazz Playlist.