Gifts of rare, primary, or retrospective texts such as women's diaries, letters, and first editions of literary works are encouraged. The collection also reflects the increasing number of women's studies materials being published internationally, and the increasing need for these materials in support of the curriculum. English language materials published in the third world are particularly important. Emphasis is on scholarly monographs for humanities and social sciences disciplines. Selected popular works are acquired as well.
Emphasis is generally on historical and analytical treatments.
Creative writing is collected to some degree, although the majority of these materials are acquired as part of the general literature collection. Major journals are acquired. Books and journals are the primary material types collected. Materials on microform are also collected, particularly for runs of journals and reproductions of important primary texts. A thorough collection of reference tools is maintained and acquired.