Band Scores and Even CDs? The National Diet Library Is a Hidden Treasure Trove for Music Lovers

Have you heard of the National Diet Library?
Some of you might be vaguely familiar with the name.
Located in Nagatacho, Tokyo, near the National Diet Building, the National Diet Library is Japan’s national library. It collects and preserves nearly all publications released in the country.

I recently used the library for a bit of research for the first time, and it made me think — depending on how you use it, this place could be an amazing resource for musicians and music lovers.
This is why I decided to write this article.

Almost All Music-Related Publications in the Library’s Collection

As mentioned earlier, the National Diet Library collects and preserves nearly all publications released in Japan, and that includes music-related materials.
This covers books and magazines on music, literature on the music business, sheet music, and more.
While it’s no surprise that they have academic texts, it might be less well-known that you can also view and make copies of music magazines and band scores.
They even have well-known magazines familiar to guitarists, and you can borrow band scores too!
Note: Some materials are only available for research purposes.

CDs and DVDs Can Also Be Viewed and Listened to

Books aren’t the only materials that you can access, CDs and DVDs can also be taken out for viewing and listening purposes.
While many public libraries offer music CDs, the National Diet Library has one of the largest collections in Japan.
You’ll probably come across materials that make you go, “Wait, they have this too?!” (haha)
For example, they have live DVDs from Dream Theater and album CDs by MR. BIG.
Watching Dream Theater in a quiet government library setting might feel a bit surreal (laughs).
However, you can’t use your own equipment.
You won’t be able to bring your own headphones or CD player, so for those particular about sound quality, that might be a bit disappointing.

Make Photocopies!

Except for some materials, most books you borrow at the library can be photocopied for a fee.
For example, you can request copies of feature articles in guitar magazines or score sections.
Since some band scores are already out of print and hard to find, this is a very useful service for people in cover bands or anyone needing rare sheet music.

How to Use the National Diet Library

1. User Registration

First, you need to register on the User Registration page.
Anyone aged 18 or older, and lives in Japan, can register.
You can register in person at the library, but applying online is more convenient.

Search: National Diet Library Search

Registration is usually completed in 2–3 days after applying.
Once registered, you can use some of their services, but to view or borrow most materials, you’ll need to complete the "official user registration."

2. Official User Registration

To complete full registration, you can either:

• Visit the library in person and register there
• Apply by mail or online

If you go directly to the library, you can complete the official user registration the same day, and start viewing or borrowing materials right away. (Mail or online applications take a few days.)
I went on a Sunday during a busy time, but I was still able to complete registration in about 30 minutes.

3. Completing Registration

Once your full registration is complete, you’ll receive a user card.

This card is used for entering and exiting the library, borrowing and returning materials, and using electronic terminals inside the building.

Important Points to Keep in Mind When Using the Library

1. Large bags or opaque bags are not allowed inside

To prevent materials from being taken out of the building, you can’t bring in large bags or bags where the contents can’t be seen.
There are coin lockers near the entrance, so you can store your belongings there.
Valuables and writing tools are allowed, but they must be carried in a clear tote bag.
Note: The library provides clear tote bags for use.

2. No Convenience Stores or Vending Machines Nearby

There are almost no convenience stores or vending machines inside the library or in the nearby area.
So be sure to bring your own drinks or snacks in advance, or use the cafeteria inside the library.
Also, eating and drinking are only allowed in designated areas.

3. Some Materials May Restrict Your Movement

I borrowed five guitar magazines, but three had to be read in the Main Building, while the other two were in the Annex.
On top of that, the two in the Annex could only be viewed in a specific location, and I wasn't allowed to leave the area until I returned them (though short trips, like to the restroom, are probably fine).
When eating in the cafeteria, you aren’t allowed to bring materials with you — you’ll need to either return them or store them in a coin locker.

4. Some Materials Are Only Available for Research Purposes

Certain materials can only be used if you have a clear research purpose.
This doesn’t often apply to music-related items, but materials with graphic or sensitive content must be handled carefully, so you are not allowed to view them just out of curiosity.

About the National Diet Library Search

The National Diet Library offers a service called “National Diet Library Search”, which lets you search and view the materials in their collection.

About the National Diet Library Search

If you’ve completed user registration, you can also use convenient features like:

• Reserving materials in advance
• Requesting copies by mail

These options make using the library even easier.

I Tried Looking Up a Book I Was Featured In!

In 2024, I had the opportunity to take part in the 20th anniversary edition of Shinichi Kobayashi’s instructional book series, Jigoku no Mekanikaru Tore-ningu (Hell’s Mechanical Training).
(I recorded the bass for the final track and programmed the drums.)

Rittor Music | Guitar Magazine – Jigoku no Mekanikaru Tore-ningu Fure-zu 20nen no Oiwai! Konpura Junshu no Suparuta Besuto Hen (Hell’s Mechanical Training Phrases: 20 Years of Cursed Drills!) Compliance-Focused Spartan Best Edition

Out of curiosity, I tried searching for the book on the National Diet Library Search, and…

I found it!
It was such a meaningful moment to see a book with my name in it preserved in the National Diet Library.

Final Thoughts

What did you think?
The “National Diet Library” might sound a bit formal or serious, but it’s actually a place anyone can use easily.
In an age where information is quickly available online, there is unique value in exploring past music culture through printed books and magazines.
Why not use the National Diet Library this summer to enjoy a deeper music life?

⇒ List of guitar-related books

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