Missouri State University Libraries

Music Library: About the Collection

About the Music Library

The Missouri State University music library was established in 1986. The primary function of the library is to support the music curricular and informational needs of the Missouri State University Music Department. As such, music materials related to areas taught in the department are a large part of the collection. Additionally, the library collects scores and recordings of important musical works for study and analysis. The Music Library staff is more than happy to help with locating musical scores and sound/video recordings and with questions or research projects.

The Music Library is open seven days per week during the Fall and Spring semester, and maintains reduced hours during the summer term, intersessions and break periods. The library is open to the general public, but only Missouri State faculty, staff, students, friends and contract institution members may borrow materials.

The Collection

Books

The Music Library houses more than 5,000 books on musical subjects. These include biographies, histories, dictionaries and encyclopedias, works on music theory and analysis, pedagogy and musical genres.

Scores

The Music Library houses a diverse collection of musical scores. These range from popular songbooks to study scores of symphonic masterpieces, and include the collected works of Bach, Mozart and Beethoven among others. The library also houses a special reserve collection of Broadway musical theatre scores.

Sound and Video Recordings

Musical sound and video recordings are housed in the Audio/Video library located in Ellis Hall Room 305. These materials include complete performances of operas and shows, orchestral, chamber and solo instrumental music, and other performances of ethnic, popular and Western Art musics. Equipment is available for the playback of these materials.

Periodicals

The library subscribes to over 100 musical periodicals. Current issues are made available as soon as they are received from the publisher. Back issues are cumulated, bound and shelved in the lower level of Meyer Library.

Reference

A collection of dictionaries, encyclopedias, catalogs, research and study guides are shelved in the reference section. These materials may be used for basic questions as well as detailed research. Reference books do not circulate. Music user guides are available to help identify reference materials for research in specific subject areas.

Donations

The Music Library accepts donations of select material in good condition. A Music Library Endowment has been established to accept monetary donations. For information, contact the Music Library Department Head (836-5499).