PCs for library users to access digital library resources are located throughout the library building, especially in the first floor reference area. The library plans to provide improved equipment and spaces for use of its media collections. Special Collections including the Hogan Jazz Archive, Manuscripts, Rare Books, University Archives, and the Southeastern Architectural Archive were moved to renovated space in nearby Jones Hall in 1999, but these are still important parts of the Howard-Tilton Memorial Library. The library's general collections are managed by librarians assigned to academic disciplines that the collections support. The librarians select books, journals, and other materials in accordance with the needs of Tulane University's teaching and research programs.
Librarians also provide liaison to academic departments.
Currently, their work is coordinated through the Library's Research and Information Services division and overseen by the assistant dean who heads the division. Special Collections and department collections such as those for music and government documents are managed separately. The library has begun work on an ambitious project to formulate a comprehensive collection development policy which will include detailed policy statements for each discipline supported. It plans a subsequent comprehensive collection assessment to evaluate the strengths and weaknesses of its collections. Book and Journal Selection Faculty participation in the selection process is welcomed and encouraged.