Music Library

Listening and Viewing

Audio resources are extensive and include both music and spoken word content. The physical collection of compact discs, cassettes, and phonographs is cataloged, and most of our holdings are also reported in WorldCat. The online portion of the collection currently consists of four major online audio subscription packages; African American Song, Smithsonian Global Sound, Classical Music Library, and Naxos.

On-site playback options of the physical collection include turntables, CD players, cassette decks, and VHS/DVD players. Playback of the physical audio and video collections is limited to staffed Listening Room hours.

Audio streaming is available through two workstations in the Listening Room, as well as throughout the building through wireless connectivity, and from off-campus.

Videos relating to music or dance now number over 400. We have holdings in both VHS and DVD format, both of which may be viewed either in the area adjacent to the Listening Room or in carrels in Mugar Library's Microforms Department.

Our audio and video resources are intended for onsite audition and playback. However, use within the classroom, or for the University's broadcasting or official functions is encouraged. Just speak with staff to make arrangements.

Mugar classrooms 203 and 205 are equipped with upright pianos, and audio CD and phono playback. Two VHS/DVD players with large monitors on carts, also on the second floor, can be readily transported.

Projection of content via laptop is by faculty reservation in advance of class through the BU Media Group.