The library collection is organized according to a specialized classification scheme developed in 1904 in consultation with the New York Public Library. At that time a suitable classification system did not exist for an earth science library with concentration in geologic topics. Classification is based on geographic areas, which are identified by numbers enclosed in parenthesis, and subject groupings for general works, earth sciences, and pure sciences, represented by whole and decimal numbers. A revised edition of U.S. Geological Survey Bulletin 2010 contains a complete description of the classification system. The USGS Library is open to the public Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays.
Copy machines are available at all locations.
An online union catalog , containing bibliographic information about materials added to the library since 1975, is available on the World Wide Web. To ask for reference assistance online, use the Ask a Librarian button on the library's home page. Circulation information is provided both in person and over the telephone. The USGS Library lends certain materials to the public and other libraries through interlibrary loan. The library will not process requests communicated by telephone.