Detroit Opera Archive and Resource Library

The Detroit Opera Archive and Resource Library is the official library and archive for Detroit Opera, and specializes in research materials specific to dance, opera, and Detroit Opera's over fifty year history.

Dr. Tim Lentz, archivist and director of the Archive/Resource Library was interviewed for the most recent issue of the British library journal Focus on International Library and Information Work. For a complete history and overview of the resources and activities in the Archive/Resource Library, click here.

Founded in 2007 with a generous gift from Robert and Maggie Allesee, Detroit Opera is currently continuing to open its resources to the public, including books, scores, CDs, videos, and hundreds of unique items from the history of Detroit Opera productions. From performance reviews, to photographs, to an immense recording collection, Detroit Opera is proud to offer this unique resource.

As part of an Institute of Library and Museum Services Grant titled, "Educating the 21st Century Fine and Performing Arts Librarian," Detroit Opera interns have developed a unique online archival catalog that makes available the entire Detroit Opera archive - as well as searchable database of all performances. With assistance from the Wayne State University School of Information Science, where Dr. Lentz serves on the Board of Advisors, the Archive/Library is currently cataloging and digitizing the Detroit Opera archives, both helping to preserve the history of dance and opera in Michigan, and provide experience to the next generation of information professionals.