Canadian materials are emphasized. Most yearbooks and frequently revised titles are acquired only periodically and when possible are acquired as gifts. Calendars of North American information studies programs are also collected. Serials may be collected in paper, microform, electronic or CD-ROM formats. Because of the high cost of most audio-visual material, acquisition is much more selective than for print material.
Most titles currently acquired are in videocassette.
Acquisition is based mainly on potential instructional use and cost. CD-ROM acquisitions are principally databases in information studies areas. Core titles are acquired on subscription, some general titles are donated by the database producers, and selected non-serial titles are purchased. Network licenses are signed for some core titles which are mounted on the network. Microcomputer software includes both full versions and test versions.