Community directory

British Library. Sound Archive

The British Library Sound Archive is one of the largest sound archives in the world. Opened in 1955 as the British Institute of Recorded Sound, it became part of the British Library in 1983. It now holds over 1 million discs, 200,000 tapes and other sound and video recordings.

The Archive offers 6 main subject areas:
* Drama and Literature;
* International Music;
* Oral History;
* Popular Music;
* Classical Music;
* Wildlife Sounds.

The Recorded Sound Information Service is located in the Humanities 2 Reading Room. Readers can access an unrivalled reference collection of catalogues, discographies and on-line resources. The service can also be accessed by post, phone, fax or e-mail.

The Listening and Viewing Service provides free public access to the Sound Archive's collection of recorded sound and video. The service is by appointment and both individual and group listening facilities are available. Requests can be made via the Recorded Sound Information Service, by phone, fax or e-mail.

Charged services: Transcriptions of recordings can be made provided users have obtained relevant copyright clearance.

See separate entries for details of admissions to the British Library.

Opening Hours:
* Mondays 10.00am-8.00pm;
* Tuesday-Thursday 9.30am-8.00pm;
* Fridays and Saturdays 9.30am-5.00pm.

For directions and accessibility please see British Library entry.

Parent organisation: British Library.