The Library of Congress has unveiled a new digital tool called Citizen DJ, created by one of the library's Innovators in Residence, Brian Foo. The tool will let users dig into the Library's vast archive of sounds and create and download their own beats.

Foo, a data-visualization artist and onetime break dancer, told the New York Times that the project took inspiration from hip-hop's origins, where DJs would go crate-digging in record stores to source samples. "What is that collective crate that we all own as American citizens? What are these sounds that can be used in an unrestricted creative way?" he told the news outlet.

Now, the Library of Congress has created a test site available through May 15, where users can source available sounds. Today, April 24, the Library and Foo will host a Virtual Masterclass on Facebook at 3 p.m. ET. Attendees will have the chance to offer feedback and ask Foo questions.

"Calling all music lovers! Preview the new Citizen DJ app from our Innovator-in-Residence Brian Foo, and discover how to make Hip Hop using the Library’s music collection," the event writes. "Learn how to participate as a beta tester and provide valuable feedback in the development of Citizen DJ."

Learn more about Citizen DJ and the Library of Congress here.