Our collections
K-State Libraries provide access to physical and electronic collections that support the teaching and research mission of the university. Our collections are comprised of more than three million volumes and include our special collections, university archives and digitized materials. Our budget also supports online access to more than 200 databases and more than 90,000 electronic journals.
Getting what you need for your research
Faculty and researchers should connect with their librarian to discuss their ongoing research and collection needs. Additionally, you can make specific purchase requests.
Access to our collections
K-State students, staff and faculty are eligible to borrow materials. Other users may be able to borrow materials through one of our other borrowing programs. K-State students, faculty and staff can access our electronic collections from anywhere by logging in with their eID and password. Due to licensing agreements, we cannot provide alumni with access to our electronic databases and collections. However, anyone can access our electronic collections by using one of the computers at any of our library locations.
Collection decisions and budget
Faculty, researchers and department heads should talk to their librarian early and often about their research needs. This is the best way to ensure your voice is heard when librarians make collection decisions. Additionally, we encourage K-State faculty and researchers to engage with our Center for Scholarly Publishing to learn more about sustainable publishing models, including open access publishing.
Cancellation and curation of materials
In the face of decreasing budgets and skyrocketing subscription prices on electronic databases, the Libraries has reduced or discontinued access to some materials. The Libraries has also undergone a comprehensive curation project to align the Hale Library physical collection with current teaching and research efforts at K-State.
Book donations
K-State Libraries is currently unable to accept donations of books, journals and other materials. This decision is a result of the high cost of sorting, reviewing and processing donated material, much of which duplicates our current holdings.
Exceptions include:
- Textbook donations for current courses to be placed on course reserves.
- Books written by K-State faculty that are not currently in the general collection.
- Materials that enhance our unique holdings in Archives and Special Collections.
Alternative donation locations
We recommend the Manhattan Public Library and Better World Books as other options for book donations. Please check their websites for instructions and further details.