Recreational Reading

Supporting student well-being and curiosity by offering easy-to-browse recreational reading that complements academic research and coursework.

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Reading Beyond Research

College reading doesn’t always have to be for an assignment. The Library offers recreational reading collections designed to help you unwind, recharge and explore stories that spark curiosity and joy. Whether you’re taking a break from research, looking for a quick escape between classes or rediscovering reading for fun, you’ll find approachable, engaging options all in one place.

Find Your Next Great Read

Discover books and publications curated for curiosity, creativity and enjoyment.

Fun Reads Collection

The Fun Reads Collection features high-demand, bestselling and recreational titles selected for easy browsing and enjoyment.

Location: First floor, near the Research Help Desk

What You’ll Find:

Fiction and nonfiction
Graphic novels and comic books
Romance, mystery, and thrillers
Cookbooks and popular titles

Checkout Details:

Fun Reads books check out for six weeks and may be renewed once.

Browse the Fun Reads collection.

Zines Collection

Zines — short for “fanzines” — are small, often handmade publications that explore personal, cultural and creative topics. Originating in the 1980s, zines offer unique voices and perspectives you won’t find elsewhere.

Browse the Library’s zine collection.

Browse by Genre

Discover your next great read by exploring popular genres from the Library’s collection. Whether you’re looking for an escape, a laugh, or a new perspective, there’s something here for every reader.

Adventure
Fast-paced stories filled with action, exploration and high-stakes journeys.
Children’s Books
Stories for young readers that spark imagination and a love of reading.
Coming of Age
Stories about growth, identity and finding one’s place in the world.
Fantasy
Imagined worlds, magic and epic adventures beyond reality.
Fiction About Real People
Novels inspired by real lives, blending storytelling with history and biography.
Graphic Novels
Visual storytelling through comics and illustrated narratives for all ages.
Historical Fiction
Narratives set in the past that bring history to life through story.
Horror and Suspense
Dark, thrilling stories designed to keep you on the edge of your seat.
Humor
Lighthearted, witty and laugh-out-loud reads to brighten your day.
Libros en Español
Novels and stories available in Spanish.
Mystery
Suspenseful reads filled with secrets, twists and unforgettable reveals.
Novels of Home and Family
Stories that focus on relationships, belonging and family life.
Political Stories
Fiction that explores power, justice, leadership and social change.
Psychological Fiction
Character-driven stories that explore the mind, identity and human behavior.
Romance
Stories centered on relationships, love and emotional connection.
Science Fiction
Speculative stories that explore technology, the future, and what’s possible.
Short Stories
Compelling narratives told in brief, powerful moments.
War Stories
Fiction that examines conflict, courage, and the human cost of war.
Westerns
Tales of the American West, frontier life, and rugged independence.

Get in Touch

Library staff provide support for research, coursework and access to resources. Contact the library to connect with the help you need.

Chat with a Librarian

Get help finding sources, citing your work and using research tools. Chat with a CSUMB librarian in real time for personalized support.

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Library Circulation Desk