Libraries and leisure

Performing Arts Collection : an introduction to our services

Performing Arts Collection: an introduction to our services


The Performing Arts Collection is part of the Central Resources Library

What is available in the Performing Arts Collection?

Books on

• composers, musicians, history of music, music theory, world music, jazz and popular music
• acting, directing, lighting, make-up, costume, stagecraft and auditions
• cinema and television
• dance, circus skills and other performing arts

Playscripts including full-length plays, one-act plays, sketches and audition pieces

Music scores including a wide range of vocal scores, instrumental music, tutors, study scores, and song albums covering classical, jazz and popular music

Recordings

• DVDs and videos of plays, films, operas and instrumental tutors
• compact discs of classical music, music from films and shows, world music, and sound effects

Information

• reference books
• periodicals covering music, theatre, dance and film
• details of local events and groups
• internet access
• specialist staff to assist you

Performance sets

• orchestral sets, arrangements for school ensembles, and wind band sets
• sets of vocal scores, from Monteverdi to Rodgers and Hammerstein
• playsets, including plays for children and young people

A hire fee is charged for borrowing performance sets.

Who can use the library? Anyone can use the library, but some of our services require a current Hertfordshire library membership card. If you do not already have one, bring proof of identification (address and signature) to join. Membership is free.

Can I borrow items from the library? Books, playscripts and music scores can be borrowed for three weeks, and videos and compact discs are loaned for one week. For a small charge, items can be sent to your local library for you to collect.

Music sets and playsets can be borrowed for up to twelve months. Sets can be reserved up to twelve months in advance, and can be collected from your local library by prior arrangement with the Performing Arts Collection.