Books and Bound Periodicals

The Madden Library contains more than a million volumes on all subjects and in many languages, as well as a large number of periodicals in microform. With the exception of the specialized collections, all materials are available to users on a self-service basis. In addition, most types of materials may be requested online through the catalog (make the word catalog a link to it) and held for pickup later. Requested materials are generally available one business day after the request is placed.

Periodical Subscriptions

The library subscribes to more than 2,500 periodicals from all over the world. In addition, we provide access to over 40,000 online journals. For a complete list of available journals, go to the journal list.

Maps and Government Information

The Government Documents Department is a selective depository for United States and California documents, containing more than 275,000 documents on all topics. In addition, we have over 150,000 maps and aerial photos covering California, the United States, and the rest of the world.

Specialized Collections

The library contains a Teacher Resource Center that provides children’s books, lesson plans, and teaching materials to support current and future K-12 teachers. The Music/Media Collection provides audio and video recordings as well as music scores in all genres of music. A Special Collections Library houses rare books, materials on local and state history, and other specialized collections. The Central Valley Political Archive documents the contributions of San Joaquin Valley federal and state political figures. The Arne Nixon Center is the largest children’s literature research center in the western United States.

Research Assistance

Librarians are ready and willing to help you with your library research at the Reference Desk and in other departments of the library. You may also contact reference librarians through email, chat, text, or by appointment. See link for details.

Learning about the Library

Handouts describing the library and its services can be found near the entrance. Tours and library instruction workshops are offered in person and online tutorials. Contact the Reference Desk for details.

Access to Databases

The library provides access to hundreds of databases on a wide range of subjects. Some provide citations and abstracts, while others provide the complete text of articles. Databases are available at library workstations, on laptops available for checkout, in campus computer labs, and remotely from home to Fresno State students, faculty, and staff.

Borrowing from Other Libraries

If we do not have the book or journal that you need, we will try to get it from another library. Link+ allows you to borrow books and media directly through the catalog. The Interlibrary Borrowing Service enables you to borrow research materials from libraries throughout the country.

Printers and Copiers

Printers/photocopy machines are available throughout the library. All printing and copying is part of the campus-wide Pay for Print program.