Reference Assistance
Library of Congress Reference Correspondence Policy
The primary mission of the Library of Congress is to serve Members
of the Congress and thereafter, the needs of the government, other
libraries, and members of
the public, universities, and learned societies.
The Library of Congress encourages correspondents to use local
library resources first. Public, state, academic, and special libraries
are often able to respond more quickly and thoroughly than we and
are better able to identify and respond to specific and ongoing
research needs. Local reference librarians often rely on state
and regional library networks to supplement their resources and
on the Library of Congress for questions requiring access to our
collections.
Once correspondents have exhausted local and regional resources,
they may seek assistance from the Library of Congress. Our staff
will respond to their reference and information needs to the extent
possible. Please note that the scope of our services does not include:
1) compilation of bibliographies; 2) response to requests for information
connected with school assignments, debates, and contests; and 3)
research in heraldry or family history.
SCOPE:
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The Music Division will provide a
reasonable amount of basic information about materials in its
collection, and will serve as the library of last resort for
other questions when local resources have been exhausted. Please
indicate resources already consulted when requesting information
about a wide-ranging subject. |
COPIES:
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The Library
of Congress Duplication Services will not reproduce
copyrighted material without written permission from the
current copyright claimant. Securing such permission is the
patron's responsibility. (see Copyright
Office for more information)
Generally, music created since 1924 is still protected
by copyright in the United States. Many songs can be found
in anthologies available from music stores, publishers, or
local libraries. One resource to consult:
Musi*key, the Reference Guides of Note
(published by Musi*key, 10260 N. Alder Spring Dr., Tucson,
AZ 85737) |
Please note: All of the following types of requests
are treated equally.
LETTERS: |
Music Division
Library of Congress
101 Independence Ave. S.E.
Washington, D.C. 20540-4710
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REFERENCE
ONLINE FORM
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Ask
a Librarian |
FAX: |
202-707-0621 |
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