The collection of the Geological Sciences Library contains materials relating to all aspects of the geological sciences, including general geology, geochemistry, geophysics, historical geology, hydrogeology, economic geology, environmental geology, paleontology, structural geology and stratigraphy. Materials are collected in various formats.

Some strengths of this library's holdings include a large number of field trip guidebooks, an extensive collection of geological literature pertaining to Kentucky that includes most publications produced by the Kentucky Geological Survey, and theses and dissertations written as part of the graduate degree requirement.

The Map Collection, international in coverage, is composed of maps, aerial photos, atlases, and gazetteers. Of special significance are Sanborn fire insurance maps of Kentucky cities; aerial photos of most Kentucky counties; state, national and international topographic and geologic maps; and various maps and charts distributed on deposit from the U.S. government.