The library contains a book collection of approximately 70,000 volumes. To locate a book within the library's collection, you need to first use the Library Catalog. The catalog is available on the computer island near the library entrance. Only currently enrolled Cumberland University students and faculty may check material out of the library. Undergraduates and staff may borrow books for three weeks and audiovisual material for two days. Graduate students and faculty may borrow books for four weeks and videocassettes for one week.

Late fees are ten cents per day per item, with the exception of videocassettes, DVDs and reserve items which are one dollar per day per item. Patrons will not be able to check out new materials until fines are paid and overdue items are returned. A replacement cost equal to the cost of the materials, if available, or the average price of materials in the respective discipline and a processing fee of $5 will be charged for lost materials. Failure to pay library fines or return/renew library material on time can result in restriction of library privileges and holding of grades at the end of the semester. Community members and other visitors may use the library's collection in-house during regular hours. Students and faculty are expected to have a Cumberland University ID and this will serve as the library card for the user. ID cards are required in order to check out materials or use course reserves.