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Ask a Librarian: an online reference service from the Library of Congress
Before you ask

Services we provide
Research assistance related to music and spoken word sound recordings
Answers to queries requiring resources unique to the Library of Congress
We will attempt to respond within 5 business days.
Phonoduplication of sound recordings, as long as permission of the copyright holders is obtained

Services we cannot provide
Lists of recordings in the public domain or copyright searches *
Extensive research including compiling discographies
Language instruction tapes or books on tape for the visually disabled (see NLS below)
Appraisals

* Due to copyright restrictions the vast majority of sound recordings are not available online nor will they enter the public domain until the year 2067

 Visit the
Recorded Sound Reference Center Web page (Be sure to read Important Changes in Reading Room Service)

Have you checked:
The Library of Congress Online Catalog
Recorded Sound Catalog (SONIC),
The Copyright Database
Your local library
Our reference correspondence policy

Search in for
Getting answers

Ask a Librarian:
If you have a reference question, proceed to the online form; get answers via email.

Telephone NumbersContact us by phone or fax:
  Phone: (202) 707-7833
  Fax: (202) 707-8464

Send us written correspondence*:
  Recorded Sound Reference Center
  Library of Congress
  101 Independence Ave. SE
  Washington, D.C. 20540-4691

* please read - information on mail delays

Also, try consulting these online resources:

Guides & Reference Aids
Copies of Recordings
Downloadable Audio files
Information for Researchers
Copyright Law
National Archives Catalog to search for U.S. government films/videos in the public domain
National Library Service for the Blind and Physically Handicapped (NLS) for Books on Tape

   The Library of Congress >> Ask a Librarian Home
    June 11, 2007