The Leisure Reading Collection was established in response to continuing requests from patrons for books that could be read primarily for entertainment--a collection of books that could be set aside from the regular academic collection so that it could be conveniently and easily browsed for reading material to take on vacation or simply to read for pleasure at any time. Hundreds of titles are added to the collection throughout the year, and the collection is reviewed every six months for removal of titles, when their circulation slows significantly, to make room for new books of interest. The collection is located in shelving along the aisle between the lobby and the elevators on the fourth (main) level of the Library for ready accessibility to users. The books are arranged in alphabetical order by the authors' last names. Though the collection is arranged for easy browsing, check Acorn for the availability of books by favorite authors. A book may be checked out, or it may be in the regular circulating collection.

Because these books are generally in high demand, the ciruclation period is limited to two weeks, though they may be renewed one time if no other patron has requested the book upon its return.

The collection reflects a wide variety of reading interests. There are numerous titles from popular genres, such as mystery, science fiction, fantasy, romance, adventure, and historical fiction. The fiction collection is not limited to these genres, however. Very near several of the novels of Danielle Steel may be found recent works by such authors as Salman Rushdie, Elizabeth Spencer, Amy Tan, Kurt Vonnegut, or Alice Walker. The collection also includes best-selling titles in non-fiction fields, such as, health and exercise, money management, self-improvement, politics, social affairs, and biography.

The collection has now been expanded to include recorded books reflecting a similar wide variety of reader interests. Titles are available in cassette or cd editions, though individual titles are not duplicated in both formats.

Patrons are welcome to offer their own suggestions for additions to this collection. A suggestion box is located on one of the Leisure Reading Collection shelves. Please provide the full and accurate title of the book and author's name. Any additional information you have that would assist in the acquisition of the book is appreciated. Though it is not possible to acquire every book suggested by patrons, priority consideration is given to these suggestions.