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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:

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:

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
REFERENCE ONLINE FORM	Ask a Librarian
FAX:	202-707-0621

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November 26, 2010

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