Music PAL
Music PAL
What is Music PAL?
Music PAL aims to make music resources in a broad range of libraries throughout Ireland easily accessible to all. Libraries and archives that are members of the Music PAL scheme work collaboratively to provide improved, easy access to the wealth of music resources held in their collections.
How can Music PAL help me?
If you are following a recognised educational course, an individual learning programme, or simply pursuing a special interest of your own you can ask for a Music PAL Access Card at the library you use on a regular basis. The Access Card will allow you to visit and make use of the facilities at any of the libraries that are members of the Music PAL scheme (subject to certain conditions). You will be able to get advice and information from your own library on which other libraries in the scheme are likely to have the resources to meet your learning and information needs.
Why do I need an Access Card?
Many of the libraries in the scheme are run primarily for the members of that particular institution and are not normally open to the general public. The Music PAL Access Card tells the staff at the library you are visiting that you are a genuine learner and that your special requirements for knowledge and information cannot be dealt with by your own library.
As a Music PAL Access Card holder, will I have unlimited access to the services of these libraries?
Your level of access will be determined by the library you are visiting. At a minimum you will be allowed to consult printed materials. Internet and electronic resources cannot normally be used in academic libraries unless you are a student of that organization, due to licence agreements. The library will explain this to you and answer your questions.
How do I get a Music PAL Access Card?
It’s very simple:
• Discuss your learning and information needs with staff in your own library
• Complete the Music PAL Application Form and present it to the staff at your library with evidence of your library membership
Which libraries will I be able to use?
Member libraries include public libraries, universities, conservatories and a number of specialist libraries with music collections. For a full list of participating libraries visit the Music PAL website (external website: opens in new window).
Check before you visit to make sure that your journey is not wasted. You should also check opening times. The rules in any library you visit may be different from your own library; please respect them.
Don’t forget … if you need a specific book it can be obtained for you through the Inter-Library Loan system and you may not need to travel to another library.
(Abstracted from Music PAL information, August 2009)
Contact Information:
Ritchie Hickey, Castlebar Library Headquarters, John Moore Rd, Castlebar, Co. Mayo. Email: rhickey@mayococo.ie Phone: +353 (0)94 9047921