Books

The library houses a collection of more than 100,000 volumes including extensive holdings in theology, biblical studies, missions, pastoral theology, history, Islamics, Music, English literature, behavioral science, and business.  For further statistical information on this and the rest of the library’s collections see the latest annual report.

Periodicals

The library has current paper subscriptions to approximately 350 periodicals. Back issues are either bound or acquired in microform. The periodical collection is available for in-library use only, but articles may be copied on the library’s photocopier ($.10/page) or reader-printer ($.15/page). For a list of the full-text electronic databases to which the library subscribes, see electronic databases.

Audiovisual Media

The collection includes more than 500 videos and DVDs and more than 1,600 sound recordings. These media are available for two-week loan.

Special Collections and Archives

The library has a specialized research collection in the history of the Christian and Missionary Alliance and the Church of the Nazarene.

The Ambrose Archives document the history of Ambrose University College and Seminary, and their predecessors. The Archives also serve as the official archives of the Christian and Missionary Alliance in Canada.

Chinese and Korean Material

The library houses a limited collection of theological books in both Chinese (catalogued) and Korean (uncatalogued).

Reference Collection

The library’s extensive reference collection of more than 4,000 volumes includes dictionaries, handbooks, encyclopedias, atlases, and duplicate copies of the major biblical commentary series. Reference volumes do not circulate.

Oversize Collection

To facilitate reshelving the library places any book taller than 28.5 cm. in a special oversize collection. Such volumes are designated “oversize” in the catalogue. The oversize collection is housed adjacent to the reference collection. Oversized items may be borrowed on two-week loan.