Librettos for musicals include the dialogue and lyrics; also known as "the book" of a musical. Librettos are often published by themselves, and the Music Library has many librettos for older repertory. For very recent productions we often have a resource with lyrics. The Music Library does not have full, complete scripts (all words including stage directions); however, your instructor may have provided a copy via Course Reserve for productions on your class list.

Lyrics for just the songs are usually printed in the booklets that accompany CD (and sometimes old LP) cast recordings. Look for a note in the catalog record about lyrics in the “description” tab--it will usually say something like "lyrics inserted in container" or "booklet with lyrics..."

Librettos are printed like books and are in the ML section of the library. Individual shows are in ML50. Collections are in ML48 and ML49. Musicals, operas, and operettas are all combined in these sections. Even though musicals often have a separate librettist, they are alphabetical by composer's last name on the shelf. You can look them up in the catalog by title and either composer or librettist. If you can't find the musical you are looking for on the shelf, please keep in mind it may be on reserve for your course.

• Guide to Musicals and Musical Theatre
• Theatre
• Music Library page