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THE LIBRARY COLLECTIONS
The heart of any library
is its collection. Developing and maintaining a small but select collection
of materials that balance current and local relevance with universality and
enduring value is an ongoing priority.
CATALOGUED COLLECTION Materials in the
library’s permanent collection of books, audio tapes, CDs, videotapes and
DVDs, are fully catalogued. To access the library collection catalogue,
click HERE.
PERIODICALS The library subscribes to
a wide variety of periodicals not listed in the catalogue. To view a listing
of magazines and newspapers, click HERE.
GOVERNMENT DOCUMENTS The library also
keeps on file a broad assortment of uncatalogued current government
documents and other informational materials, including many produced by the
U.S. Government Printing Office.
In addition to works of general interest,
the library features several special collections.
MATERIALS FOR CHILDREN are a high priority. In order to provide
a learning resource for Medina’s youth, one-third of the total collection
is devoted to children’s materials. Materials for
younger readers are shelved in the children’s sections of the library and marked
with a blue dot. Those suitable for teens are shelved in the adult section,
marked with a green dot.
TEXAS-RELATED MATERIALS
are another priority. These
include works of fiction, general reference
materials, books specifically relating to the
natural world of the Edwards Plateau region,
materials relating to Texas history in general,
and works specifically focused on Medina and
Bandera County. Texas-related materials are marked
with a white star on the spine; Texas nonfiction
and biography are shelved in the Texana Room.
LOCAL AND FAMILY HISTORY The library is developing an
archive of information about the area’s history,
to preserve an understanding of Medina’s past for future generations. This
collection includes:
—detailed cemetery records for western Bandera
County on a database available at the library, along with maps and
directions for visitors.
—historic photographs. The library has a growing digital photographic archive
to preserve a visual record of Medina’s
past, including agricultural activities and enterprises, buildings, datable
school photos, identifiable individuals. A photo album in the library’s
reference section displays captioned copies of these images.
—Medina family file drawer. Any Medina
individual interested in maintaining family records at the library is welcome to
establish a file.
—genealogical
resources. The library has a number of non-circulating
resources available in a variety of formats for individuals
researching their own family history.
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