In line with this mission, the Library aims to provide access to a wide range of information to support course and program-related study and research within the University, together with other materials necessary to provide a wider educational experience. This policy concentrates primarily on access to materials held by the Library. However, the library staff also aims to enable users to locate materials and information from outside agencies. The Concordia University Library acquires materials to support students and other patrons with their scholarly and professional goals. The acquisitions program places strong emphasis on acquiring current inprint materials as the most effective and economical means of improving the library's collections.
Most materials acquired are current monographs in paper format in conventional sizes.
Many serials are purchased in microfiche format. Microform originals, such as commercially produced collections of books or archival materials, and works produced directly from computer output are also acquired. Microform is the preference for newly purchased serial backfiles. Most materials acquired are in one of the formats listed above. Formats and collecting levels are reflected in the various policies.