Thorndike Library's collection includes over 48,000 print and electronic books, videos, music CDs and tapes, language tapes, newspapers and journal titles, and access to a variety of databases.
 
Consistent with its philosophy, Thorndike Library is committed to the continued development of its collection. Priority is given to providing materials for the current academic programs at the College and making materials available to assist students and faculty in individual, scholarly work. In consideration of the larger community, Thorndike Library also dedicates itself to developing a collection that fosters creativity, social and political awareness, personal growth, and social well-being.

Thorndike Library is home to the College's Audio-Visual Services as well as the College Archives. Audio-visual equipment is available for circulation to eligible borrowers as determined by the A-V Technology Specialist. Equipment available for loan includes still and video cameras, tripods, recording equipment, cables, transcribers, etc. The College Archives includes material related specifically to the school's history. This material is for viewing in the library only. The collection of Senior Projects (the three credit intensive project required of all graduates) is part of that Archive's collection. The COA Collection, available for public perusal, is comprised of recordings of lecture series, speakers and special events, College and student publications, COA governance information and a number of Human Ecology Essays. The Special Collection includes items that are rare or difficult to replace and are relevant to COA's mission.