Due to the rapid growth of current journals and the availability of materials through interlibrary loan, reprint collections are not usually retained. The library has a small reference collection of various materials such as general and specific scientific encyclopedias, English and foreign dictionaries, medical dictionaries, guides, handbooks, directories, statutes, almanacs and various other scientific resources. Exchanges The marine library actively maintains exchange relationships with institutions all over the world, through various libraries and other marine science institutions. Full documentation and guidelines of all exchange agreements are handled by the staff in the serials department at the main campus library. A small map and atlas collection are kept in the library.
New purchases are limited due to cost.
The library subscribes to one regional and local newspaper. They are not retained as part of the permanent collection. The Library generally follows the guidelines of the gifts policy in the collection development department of Duke University's main library and works collaboratively with the staff personnel who is in charge. Gifts are first evaluated using the same criteria for the purchasing of new materials. The librarian has the right to decline any gifts.