Worcestershire Music Library

Based at Worcester Library the Worcestershire Music Library has one of the Largest Collections of Vocal Scores, band, chamber and Orchestral in the Country.  It covers a wide range of music from carols to operas and from simple orchestral arrangements for schools to symphonies.

They are available for loan to local Orchestras, Choirs, schools, societies to loan directly and nationally via inter library loan.

How do I join?

In order for the group to join the Music Library the contact person must first complete the online 'Music Borrower Application Form' by clicking the 'Music Library Non Members' or by visiting any Worcestershire Library with proof of identity. The contact person is agreeing to take responsibility for items borrowed for that organisation.

Where can I see a catalogue of the collection?

On the Worcestershire Libraries Catalogue; more stock is being added to this catalogue all the time.

How many sets can I borrow?

There is no restriction, within reason, on the number of works, which may be borrowed at any one time.

How long can I borrow the music for?

The normal loan period is three months. Sets can be loaned for longer periods if advance notification is given but additional hire charges will be incurred. Borrowers are requested to return the works complete to ensure future borrowers speedy access to the service; there are overdue charges if items are not returned on time.

How do I request a set of music?

When you have joined the music library you are able to request music by completing the online 'Music Borrower Application form' by clicking 'Music Library Members' If you do not have email access you may contact Worcester Music Library via the Hub on 01905 822722 or visit your local library who will complete the form on your behalf.

How much notice do I need to give for requests?

The usual notice required to borrow a music set is one month. All requests are dealt with on a first come, first served basis. But the more notice you can give us the better.

How do I request an individual copy of a vocal score?

The music library is unable to loan single copies but these are available through out the county in our libraries. These are reservable via our main online catalogue.

How can I tell the difference between a set of music or an individual copy on the online catalogue?

A set of music will be listed as vocal set or orch set but an individual copy will have a class number i.e. 782.81

What if the work I want is not in stock?

If works are not available from the Music Library Collection we may be able to give you details of other sources and possible locations from where you can obtain it.

Can I borrow music sets from other national libraries through Worcester Music Library?

The Interlibrary Loan Service for music sets is no longer available.

Are there any charges to borrow sets of music?

Charges are payable on collection of music and are based on a standard three month loan period.  If the music is required for six months then it will be necessary to double the charge.  These items will not be renewable and if they are returned late the current overdue charge of 20p per part will be charged.  Lost or damaged parts are subject to a replacement charge.

vocal score 50p per part

part songs 25p per part

orchestral set £20.00

Charge for any set returned incomplete or defaced £15.00. Charge for uncollected or cancelled orders £10.00

It has been necessary to increase our charges in line with other lending authorities to go some way to covering the costs of delivering the service which will continue to be subsidised by Worcestershire County Council for the benefit of its residents.

If you have any comments or wish to discuss the matter further please do not hesitate to contact -

Nicki Hitchcock, Library Manager, Worcester Library, Foregate Street, Worcester, WR1 1DT

Telephone: 01905 822722 or email nhitchcock@worcestershire.gov.uk

Credits?

All groups using music from the County Music Collection for a public performance are asked to mention this in their programmes.

Contact details:

Telephone: 01905 822722

Fax:01905 765326

Email:worcestermusic@worcestershire.gov.uk