Obtaining Copies of Audio Materials

Audio materials in the collections of the Library of Congress can be reproduced only when all rights restrictions have been cleared. These may include donors, copyright holders, record companies, artists, radio networks, licensing organizations, unions, etc. The Motion Picture Broadcasting and Recorded Sound Division (M/B/RS) requires anyone wishing to obtain copies to secure written authorization for the Library to make the reproductions from any and all rights holders.

While M/B/RS Reference staff can usually be of some assistance in determining what permissions are required, the onus is on the researcher to obtain them. We strongly urge requestors to listen to recordings before ordering. Since our cataloging information often derives from print sources, not the actual recording, we cannot guarantee that our catalog records for unpublished materials reflect the tape contents in all cases. In addition, the audio quality may vary, as it is dependent on the fidelity and condition of the original recording.

After contacting M/B/RS reference staff to identify the specific items to be copied, audio requestors will be referred to the Division's Public Services Office, which serves as the business arm of the M/B/RS Magnetic Recording Laboratory. In addition to other outreach services, the Public Services Office operates a fee- for-service operation for the duplication of audio and moving image materials.

Audio Duplication

If you would like to obtain audio copies of material from the Library's collections, follow this procedure:

Phonocopies are made only when the prepaid fee, signed order form, and permissions document (if applicable) are received by the Public Services Office. For Standard Service, please allow 4 to 6 weeks for delivery from the date that your payment is received by the Public Services Office. RUSH Service is available for double the hourly duplication charge with a turn around time of 5 to 7 working days. Shipping costs must be paid by the customer. (If you have a Fedex, DHL, UPS, or other courier account, you may include your account number on the Order Form and waive the shipping charge noted in the cost estimate.)

If you have any questions specifically regarding costs and ordering procedures, please contact the Public Services Office at Tel:(202)707-0246 or Fax:(202)707-2371.

Audio Transfer Rates

All audio copies are made in the Library's Recording Laboratory. Hourly rates are as follows.

Stock Charges

*Please note: the longevity of a recordable CD can be shortened by mishandling, labeling, or writing on the disc's surface. In addition, environmental factors including, but not limited to, high temperature and humidity may decrease the life span of recordable CD's. Dye formulations for recordable CD's change frequently, and in the absence of an industry standard, there is no guarantee on the lifespan of the CD-R's produced for customers.