The maps, books and other items selected support the areas of strength in the Arthur Lakes Library. All major geographic and subject areas are covered by basic cartographic materials. Priority is given to materials based on geographic area and thematic content. Though there are no chronological limitations, only current maps are actively collected. The thematic emphasis is on, but not limited to, geology, mining, energy resources, mineral resources, water resources, geophysics, engineering, and environmental sciences.
Aerial photography is limited to Colorado.
Worldwide topographic coverage is maintained. Only the latest version of each topographic sheet is kept. One copy of every version of every US Geological Survey topographic map of Colorado is kept in the Map Room Office. These are non-circulating reference copies. Other copies of each topo may be checked out.