This text investigates the primary bibliographic and archival resources available to musicologists, librarians, and researchers seeking to navigate the vast landscape of musical documentation. J.H. Davies, a prominent music librarian, synthesizes decades of professional experience to categorize the diverse types of information sources required for comprehensive music research. The work provides a structured framework for identifying, locating, and evaluating materials ranging from historical scores to contemporary discographies and reference manuals.

Experts recognize this work as a foundational reference for music librarianship and academic research in the field. Readers frequently note the practical utility of the organizational systems presented, which remain relevant for understanding the structure of music information systems.