Except for enduring works, the stress is on currently published materials. These materials are obtained for the MCU's Family Library. The Library acquires multiple copies at the request of course directors for basic curriculum or advanced courses. They are usually placed on reserve for specific course assignments. It may also acquire multiple copies of heavy demand titles, current or projected.
All librarians share in selecting materials for the collection.
The major responsibility rests with the heads of Public Services and Collection Management. The Head of Collection Management coordinates the entire selection procedure. Final responsibility rests with the Library Director. Regularly, each professional librarian and some technicians with subject expertise examine specific journal and book review publications and advertisements to select materials for the collection. The librarians also screen other sources for selections, e.g. Navy Times, New York Times, and Washington Post.