The Music Library contains a large collection of music literature, printed and recorded music. The printed stock consists of approximately 35,000 books, 40,000 scores and 1,500 periodical volumes. The scores include the Choral Collection, which consists of multiple copies of all the best known vocal scores.
Currently, there are 121 titles in the collection. The recorded music collection consists of 19,000 CDs, 1,500 DVDs, 20,000 vinyl records and 500 videos. All genres of classical and popular music are represented in these formats. All CDs, DVDs and a selection of books and scores are in the open access area of the music reading room. The majority of the printed stock is held in closed access. The Northern Ireland Music Archive, a digital archive containing audio and visual materials of contemporary classical and folk music is available to all library visitors. In addition to published song indexes, the music library has developed comprehensive in-house indexes, available on a card index in the library. The library cuttings collection covers music events and personalities relating to Ireland. The Grove Dictionary of Music online is freely available to all members via the website.
The library has a significant collection of scores which has been built up and added to over a long period. The Choral Collection is of particular interest to choirs and musical groups. The recorded sound holdings are extensive and include historic vinyl recordings. The Northern Ireland Music Archive holds recordings of works by Northern Ireland composers, interviews and documentary material relating to the development of contemporary music in Northern Ireland. The Archive’s printed documents incorporate scores and programmes of premiere performances.
Books, periodicals, printed music, CDs, DVDs, vinyl, videos, electronic resources.
Additional Details
Custodial Information
Libraries NI have legal ownership of this collection. All enquiries regarding access and permission should be directed to Libraries NI.