The Bards are a secretive organisation, that deals in information. As the saying goes, "people speak freely among those who sing."
The organisation is not officially affiliated with the Della Roggia Bardic Academy or other academies, but it is known that they recruit from among the students, and graduates. Who heads the organisation is unknown, though the principals and leaders of all major academies are suspected. However, the Bards have managed to keep any proof of this hidden.
There are no official channels for contact either, but it is said that one may reach out to any bard, playing in any tavern or other establishment in town, with what kind of information you require. If they themselves are not part of the Bards, they will know someone who is, or who does, the idea goes. If the Bards have the required information, and believe the potential client to have the requisite payment - whether that be plain coin, different information or favours - they will reach out to them, and things will take their course.