Many of the Music Library's recordings are circulating and available for immediate use, either in physical formats or online. However, fragile or unique recordings from special collections are non-circulating and some must be digitized before use.
If you expect to use recordings from special collections, we encourage you to contact the library in the planning stages of your research project.
Finding & Using Recordings
Materials in the Loeb Music Library's Recordings Collection and Archive of World Music are cataloged in HOLLIS, the Harvard Library catalog. Finding aids for many special collections in the Archive of World Music are also available via HOLLIS.
- Harvard affiliates can borrow recordings from the circulating collections.
- Recordings that don't require digitization can be played in the library. Those without a Harvard ID are welcome, but must register with Harvard Library before visiting.
- Contact the library if you have questions about whether a recording is circulating, non-circulating, or requires digitization.
- Harvard Library has many streaming audio and video recordings in addition to its physical recordings collections. For help finding a streaming recording, contact the library.
Requesting Digitization
You don't need to be a Harvard affiliate to request digitization of recordings from our special collections. However, requests from Harvard affiliates receive priority.
- Place requests for digitization using HOLLIS Special Request.
- Requests are evaluated on a case-by-case basis. After reviewing your request, a curator will approve, deny, or request more information.
- Please allow at least eight weeks for your request to be processed.
- You may request up to 10 items for digitization. If your research requires access to more than 10 recordings, please contact the library.
- If you are placing requests for multiple items, please submit them in order of priority.
- We provide recordings for listening use only. If your research requires a manipulable user copy, please contact the library.
Accessing Digitized Recordings
Streaming access to digitized recordings is provided through Aviary. Once your request is complete, you will receive an email with a link to create an Aviary account and listen to the recordings. We provide recordings for listening use only. Your use of these materials is governed by the user agreement provided with your Aviary access. Recordings are available for a limited time.