MUSIC

Davidson College Music Library circulation desk and media stations

Music Library

The music library is located in the newly renovated Sloan Music Center, adjacent to the Baker-Watt Science Complex and Chambers Building (the main academic building on campus). Occupying 1900 sq. feet of Sloan’s north wing, the music library is designed for maximum flexibility. Six computers are available to the public, allowing users to listen to CDs, watch a DVD, do research on the web, or listen to streaming audio reserves—all from the same workstation.

Three study tables are wired with network connections, allowing up to twelve users with laptops to work simultaneously. The library is also equipped with wireless networking, with three laptops on hand for checkout. Of course, turntables, tape players, cd players and VCRs are also available.

A group listening/viewing room is located at the back of the library, where students may gather to listen to recordings or view videos.

A fulltime professional music librarian oversees the music library, and is available to answer reference questions. A staff of thirteen students and a half-time staff member work to keep the library open 87 hours a week.

Media stations and group listening room

The music library currently houses approximately 14,000 scores, recordings and reference books. Most of the books and periodicals on music are housed in the nearby E. H. Little Library. More than 600 items are on course reserve each term, and more than 500 sound files on electronic reserve. Electronic reserves allow students to do listening for courses almost anywhere there is a computer.

The Music Library is a primarily a reference collection, with items circulating only to faculty and to students making class presentations.

With more than 25% of the Davidson student body involved with music classes or ensembles, the library is a well-utilized campus resource. Its high ceilings and many windows have helped make the new music library a favorite of students, faculty and staff.