The Sheet Music Special Collection is comprised of thousands of individual popular songs, classical songs, and popular and classical piano pieces. This collection is located at the Oakland Public Library’s Main branch. Although most of this collection has not been cataloged or indexed, a portion of the collection, Popular Songs 1845-1949, has been indexed. Additional years are currently being added.

Sheet music from this special collection may not be checked out, but may be used in the Library or photocopied for personal use. If you are unable to come to Oakland Public Library, consult with the interlibrary loan department of your local library. We cannot fax, mail or e-mail copies of sheet music or scores.

To search for popular songs in the Oakland Public Library’s music collection, we recommend you follow these steps:

Step One
Search for popular songs and scores by looking in the Library's catalog. Some of these scores must be used in the Library; others may be available to borrow.
Catalog Search

Step Two
Find popular songs by using the Song Index card catalog located at the Main Library Adult Reference Services Desk.

Step Three
Browse the Sheet Music Special Collection Index, Popular Songs 1845-1949 of over 3,500 popular songs. Make all requests in person at the Adult Reference Services Desk at the Main Library.

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