The Adelson Library collection is a direct reflection of the work being done at the Cornell Lab of Ornithology, with an eye toward the potential information needs of the future. The majority of the items available at the Adelson Library can be classified as ornithology, the study of birds. Great emphasis is placed on the study of wild birds. The library holds some items for the keeping of aviary or farm fowl. 

 Some ornithological resources can also be found in the Flower-Sprecher Veterinary Library collection.  That collection reflects their clients research needs in the areas of health, disease, and behavior of captive (pet) and domestic birds and poultry.

 Many titles at the Adelson Library can be classified as general zoology or may fall under another -ology within general life sciences, but the responsibility for collecting items outside of ornithology is left to Mann Library, the main life sciences library on the Cornell University campus or another specialized Cornell University Library.

The Adelson Library does not discriminate based upon media type. The library collects printed materials produced on paper as well as those stored electronically. Sound and video recordings, both digital and analog, are an important part of the collection. As new technologies are adopted, the Adelson Library collection will be enhanced. Older technologies will continue to be supported or will be transferred to current technologies as copyright compliance allows.

Field guides to all areas of the planet are collected. Subjects for field guides vary greatly but are limited to the natural world. Topics include but are not limited to: birds, butterflies, beetles, fish, mammals, shells, lizards, amphibians, snakes, minerals, trees, flowers and mushrooms. To some degree all of these topics affect the study of or the health of birds. We are very proud of our circulating field guide collection.

The Adelson Library also houses a small collection of children’s literature about ornithology. Contemporary children’s literature is housed in a special area within reach of our younger visitors. Historical children’s literature is found shelved within the general collection for use by our adult visitors.

The Adelson Library currently has approximately 200 journal subscriptions. The librarian encourages exchange agreements with other ornithology organizations both within the United States and abroad. Cornell Lab of Ornithology publications Living Bird and BirdScope are sent in exchange for similarly valued subscriptions, thereby reducing costs for both organizations.

The Adelson Library accepts donations of books, periodicals, and other items in accordance with the Cornell University Library gift policy. The library was established through the generous donation of personal book and periodical collections, and understands the value of such collections to the growth of the historical literature within the collection. The librarian reserves the right to add only those items determined to be appropriate to the collection. The Adelson Library does not collect reprints or collections of reprints.

To suggest an exchange agreement or to discuss donating books to the collection contact the librarian.