Library Collections

The Prince George's County Memorial Library System offers access to a wide range of materials such as books, music, movies, etc.. In addition to our general collection we also offer special collections and electronic resources.

• General Collection - includes print materials such as books, magazines and pamphlets, Large Print Material, CDs, DVDs, Audio books, Audio Cassettes and Videos. You can browse for titles in this collection via our online catalog.
• Electronic Collection
  • Databases -Licensed or Subscription Databases are electronic resources such as Company Directories, Magazine Indexes, Full‑text Newspapers, Encyclopedias and other commercial, copyrighted materials that PGCMLS licenses for the reference and research needs of its customers.
  • E-Reference Books - Electronic reference books are similar to databases in that the content can be searched and parts printed. These books do not have to be checked out or downloaded. They are always available for your use in the Library and through remote access at home by logging in using your PGCMLS library card number.
  • E-book Downloads - With downloadable E-books, you have access to a library of recreational and informational titles 24/7. Software and hardware requirements may vary among vendors. Always check the provider's website for the latest information on requirements for use.
  • Audio Downloads - Downloadable Audio Books are availabe from multiple vendors. (Different types of software and hardware are required by each vendor in order to download the files to your PC and/or handheld device.)
• Special Collections
  • Maryland Room (Hyattsville Branch) - The Maryland Room is a reference collection of over 8,000 books, pamphlets, clippings, maps, microforms, magazines and newspapers dealing with current and historical materials on Maryland, emphasizing Prince George's County.
  • Selima Room (Bowie Branch) - This reference collection includes books, periodicals and clippings pertaining to thoroughbred breeding and racing, with special emphasis on Maryland's contributions to the sport.
  • Sojourner Truth Room (Oxon Hill Branch) - The Sojourner Truth Room features a comprehensive collection of reference materials on African American history and culture, including over 16,000 books (many of which are rare or out of print), magazines, sheet music, pictures and posters. Vertical files contain pamphlets, clippings and bibliographies.
  • Tugwell Room (Greenbelt Branch) - The Tugwell Room houses a collection on the history of Greenbelt, Maryland and other planned communities in America.
• Other Languages Collection - Some branches have materials in other languages, especially Spanish, Chinese, French, Korean and Vietnamese. The largest collections of foreign language print materials are in the Hyattsville, Bowie, New Carrollton and Oxon Hill Branches. Videos and DVDs in other languages are in the Audio Visual Department at the Hyattsville Branch.
• Adult New Reader Materials Collection - Each branch has a collection of Adult New Reader Materials (ANR) chosen to meet the needs of both adult beginning readers and adult English language learners. These books, cassettes, and CDs are selected to help adults working independently, or with tutors, to improve their reading and language skills. Reading levels are clearly marked on the materials, and answers are provided for any tests included. Look here for English language instruction materials, both audio and print, for speakers of other languages, helpful cultural information for the new arrival, and a wide variety of subjects presented in clear and simple language.