Places to Go and Things to Do

The Texas State Bobcats compete at the highest level in all of collegiate athletics and have been one of the most consistently successful athletic programs in the Sun Belt Conference. Texas State has won the Sun Belt's Commissioner's Cup twice in the last five years (2018-2019, 202-2022) and finished in the top-five in each of those years in the Commissioner Cup standings, which take into account the success of all Sun Belt Conference athletic programs annually.

The success of Texas State Athletics also garners national exposure as the Bobcats have had live games aired on ESPN, ESPN2, ESPNU, ESPN+ and CBS Sports Network. A number of exciting plays for Texas State Athletics have also been highlighted as a part of ESPN's nightly "Sports Center Top 10 plays" segment.

Texas State students can experience the fun and excitement of Bobcat Athletics for free as admission to all home athletic events for Texas State's 16 NCAA Division I (FBS) varsity sports is free of charge by simply showing a valid Texas State student ID.

At Texas State, more than 350 student-athletes compete in 16 intercollegiate sports at the NCAA Division I and FBS level.

• Football
• Volleyball
• Women's Soccer
• Men's and Women's Basketball
• Baseball
• Softball
• Men's and Women's Cross Country
• Women's Tennis
• Men's and Women's Golf
• Men's and Women's Track & Field (Indoor and Outdoor)

Be a part of the atmosphere. Be a part of the success. Be a part of history. Be loud and be proud! After all, that's what it takes to Be a Bobcat!

Student Recreation Center (SRC)
Main Office 2nd Floor
512.245.2392

The Department of Campus Recreation offers an incredible array of indoor and outdoor recreational opportunities for the university community. Access to the Rec and use of the facility is included in student tuition and fees. Some programs charge a nominal fee for participation. Hours and additional information on all program areas are available on the website, and printed materials are located in campus recreation facilities and around campus. To stay updated on all of our events, follow us on Instagram, @txstrec!

Aquatics and safety
The program provides leisure swimming and lap swimming, free stroke clinics and swim lessons for all ages and abilities. We also offer American Red Cross certification courses such as CPR/AED, First Aid, Lifeguard Training, Instructor trainings, and more.

Fitness and Wellness
The Fitness and Wellness program offers a variety of services to help participants achieve a healthy lifestyle. Group exercise classes are offered every semester and include a variety of formats such as: Yoga, Cycle, TRX, HIIT, and Zumba. Participants may also choose to work out with a nationally certified personal trainer who will design an exercise program to meet client specific goals. Nutrition coaching is also available with our registered dietitians and dietetic interns to help students learn the best strategies to fuel their body. Don't miss our pop-events and specialty classes which are offered indoors and outdoors.

Intramural Sports
Intramural Sports are a campus tradition in which Texas State students compete against other Texas State students, offering competitive activities through tournaments, leagues and special events. Students compete in a wide variety of sports such as basketball, flag football, ultimate frisbee, sand volleyball, indoor and outdoor soccer, softball, racquetball, dodgeball, and much more. Leagues are available for women, co-rec and men, with beginner and advanced skill-level divisions.

Outdoor Recreation
This program provides outdoor recreation resources and experiences to participants of every skill level. This includes guided adventures off-campus, access to a rental library full of camping equipment and watercraft, and the 54-foot tall towers of the Climbing Center.

Headquartered in Sewell Park, the Outdoor Center provides quick and easy access for all of your San Marcos River experiences.  Students can also reserve lodging and day visits to University Camp: A 126-acre hideaway along the Blanco River, only 20 minutes away from campus. While at University Camp, students can develop team-building and communication skills through specialized activities led by the Team Building program. For more information, visit the Outdoor Center or call 512.245.2004.

Sport Clubs
Sport Clubs are registered student organizations assisted by the Department of Campus Recreation. Sport Clubs are open to all Texas State students who are motivated to compete against other collegiate Sport Clubs. The clubs promote and develop skills, engage in competition, encourage student leadership and enjoy the recreational and social fellowship of a specific sport. Generally, clubs are open to all registered Texas State students interested in a sport from novice to extremely skilled.

Some of the 37 Sport Clubs include:

• baseball (men's)
• basketball (women's)
• climbing
• competitive cheer
• cycling
• equestrian
• esports
• fencing
• golf
• gymnastics
• ice hockey (men's)
• lacrosse (men’s and women’s)
• paintball
• powerlifting
• quidditch
• racquetball
• rugby (men’s and women’s)
• running
• soccer (men’s and women’s)
• swim
• tennis
• trap and skeet
• triathlon 
• ultimate disc (men’s and women’s)
• volleyball (men’s and women’s)
• water polo (men’s and women’s)
• water ski
• weightlifting
• wrestling

Dining Services by Chartwells

512.245.9930
chartwells@txstate.edu
Download the Dine On Campus App

Chartwells Dining Services manages the on-campus food service for Texas State University, including the dining halls, food courts, markets, cafes, catering, and concessions. The Dine On Campus website features daily menus, nutrition content, ingredients, hours of operation, a full schedule of dining events and promotions, and contacts for each location and resources for students regarding wellness and sustainability. We also encourage students, faculty, and staff to download our Dine On Campus Mobile App available on Android and Apple devices. This app enables you to text your feedback, find your favorite foods on campus, purchase meal plans and, best of all, add meals to your fitness tracker. To make dining accessible, and more convenient for our guests, we now offer mobile ordering through the Grub Hub Mobile App. Using Grub Hub, users can browse menus, customize orders, pay, then have their items scheduled for pickup. Once an order is ready, Grub Hub sends a push notification to the user, who can pick it up and avoid waiting in line. Grub Hub’s app also remembers personalized choices, which makes it easy for one-tap reordering.

For any information regarding meal plans, please visit our website.

Commons Dining Hall

Located on Bobcat Trail, across from Flowers Hall
512.245.9977

Commons Dining Hall is an "all-you-care-to-eat" dining facility that offers a variety of cuisines such as home-style, Tex-Mex, grill, pizza, pasta, soup and salad bar, breakfast pantry, and deli. Our Bobcats never get tired of eating at Commons Dining Hall since our menus rotate and change every day! Commons also features many dining options for guests with special dietary needs. All baked goods are made in Texas State’s very own Bobcat Bakery! Use Text 2 Solve to send feedback on your dining experience at Commons.

The Den Food Company

Located inside the Academic Services Building South
512.245.9925

The first floor features Papa John’s Pizza, Tea Co., Absurd Bird, and Pom & Honey. Additionally, Bobcat Bakery pastries, Jack & Olive salads and sandwiches, and Blimpie Subs & Smoothies.

Einstein Bros. Bagels is located on the second floor. Skip the line by going to the Coffee Express Lane for a hot cup of brewed coffee. Use Text 2 Solve to send feedback on your dining experience at The Den Food Court.

Harris Dining Hall

Located on Moore Street, behind the Student Recreation Center
512.245.9934

Harris Dining Hall is an "all-you-care-to-eat" dining facility that offers various cuisines such as home-style, Tex-Mex, grill, pizza, pasta, soup and salad bar, breakfast pantry, and deli. Our Bobcats never get tired of eating at Harris Dining Hall since our menus rotate and change every day! Use Text 2 Solve to send feedback on your dining experience at Harris Dining Hall.

Jones Dining Center

Located across from The Tower
512.245.9935

Jones Dining Center now features Dunkin Donuts on the lower level of the building, Panda Express in the center of the building, and Melt Lab on the east wing. Enjoy signature sandwiches or salads at Create or perhaps your perfect burrito or burrito bowl at Asado Latin Grill. You can also choose from various homemade pasta, in-house pizzas, and calzones that alternate daily at Woods St. Pizza. Finally, enjoy various campus favorites from Wing It, such as hand-tossed wings, chicken tenders, or southern sides. Use Text 2 Solve to send feedback on your dining experience at Jones Dining Center.

LBJ Marketplace

Located inside the LBJ Student Center on the first and second floors
512.245.9902 | 512.245.9903

The first floor features Tu Taco, Chick-fil-A, and Starbucks Coffee.

The second floor features Pizza Hut Express, Global Evolution, Burger 512, and Jack & Olive. Mondo Subs is also located on the second floor and features a variety of signature sandwiches. Also located on the second floor is Revolution Noodle which offers made-to-order ramen bowls and our signature ramen sandwiches. Use Text 2 Solve to send feedback on your dining experience at LBJ Marketplace.

Paws-N-Go Market

Adjacent to Evans Liberal Arts
512.245.8053

This convenience store features fresh coffee, Jack & Olive snacks, bottled beverages and chips, freshly made sushi, salads, breakfast snacks, and lunch items. Look for gluten-free frozen meals and pre-packaged snacks!

UAC Cafe

Located inside of the Undergraduate Academic Center
512.245.5518 

This We Proudly Serves Starbucks location offers a variety of espressos, hot and iced coffees, as well as pastries made daily from our Bobcat Bakery. Are you looking for a quick meal as well? Grab a salad, sandwich, fruit cup, or parfait from our Jack & Olive cooler.

Shake Smart

Located inside the Student Recreation Center 

This concept focuses on offering healthy, convenient options for our Texas State University community. With a wide variety of shakes, acai bowls, natural sandwiches, oatmeal, and wraps, there is bound to be something for everyone. Signature shakes focus on offering 30+ grams of protein, high-quality whey isolates, and natural fruits and veggies. One of the most important aspects of Shake Smart is that it also provides options for guests who live a vegan, gluten-free, and lactose-free lifestyle.

The Market at University Events Center

Located in the University Events Center near Strahan Coliseum 

The Market has everything you need to refuel after a long day of exercise, from protein shakes to high-energy snacks! Are you looking to grab a quick meal or snack before class? Enjoy one of our various ready-made meals from our Jack and Olive Cooler, sandwiches, salads, and parfaits from our Jack & Olive cooler. This location also serves coffee and espressos made-to-order.

Starbucks at Alkek Library

Located on the 2nd floor of the Alkek Library 

This location provides all your favorite Starbucks favorites such as espressos, lattes, coffees, and pastries ideal for your library study sessions!

Coffee & Pi Market

Located on the ground floor of the Ingram School of Engineering

Start your day off right with your favorite drip coffee and assorted breakfast items. Then continue to stay fueled by chowing down on several snacks or Jack & Olive salads, sandwiches, or fruit cups.

CruZine: Farm to Curb

Located in various locations across campus. Please refer to our website for dates and times for each stop. 

You can see our CruZine Food Cart at various locations on campus at different times and dates. We help our Bobcats start their day off right by offering coffee and a variety of breakfast tacos. During the afternoon, you can enjoy a hearty hot dog, bottled beverage, and various snacks.

Carved & Crafted Catering

512.245.9942

Let Chartwells Catering help you design the perfect menu and personalize all the details for your unique event. Our catering services can accommodate any size, theme, or individual requirements in virtually any location — on or off-campus. Choose from various catering menus that include Blimpie, Einstein Bros. Bagels, Chick-fil-A, and Carved & Crafted!

We’ll also work with you to create a completely customized catering menu inspired by your unique needs that will leave a lasting impression on your guests. All menus will follow the Chartwells culinary philosophy; authentic recipes using the freshest, seasonal ingredients. Waiter service, buffet, small plates, and international-inspired specialty stations: all served in your style! And because you’ve entrusted your event to Carved & Crafted Catering, the food will be unmatched, the service spectacular, and the event will be unforgettable. Visit our website to view all menus and place an order for your next event!

Bobcat Concessions

512.245.5590

Chartwells oversees Concessions operations at Bobcat Stadium, Strahan Arena, the Baseball and Softball Stadiums, and the West Athletic Complex. Meal Equivalencies, Dining Dollars, and Bobcat Buck$ are accepted at certain concessions windows at Bobcat Stadium and Strahan Arena. Show your Bobcat Pride and pick up a Texas State-branded souvenir fountain drink cup during any big game!

109 Student Center Drive
Information Desk: 512.245.8686 | Room 2-11.1
Director’s Office: 512.245.3459 | Room 4-15.1
Business Office: 512.245.3454 | Room 4-15.5
Student Center Operations: 512.245.1641 | Room 2-14.1
Student Center Office of Planning, Assessment, Leadership and Marketing: 512.245.8295 | Room 4-1.6A
Conference Services: 512.245.2264 | Room 2-12.1

The 220,000-square-foot Lyndon Baines Johnson Student Center is known as the campus “living room.” It houses:  

Organizations, Programs and Services

• Bobcat Build
• Bobcat Welcome
• Cat Camp
• Homecoming
• Non-Traditional Student Organization (NTSO)
• Off-Campus Student Services (OCSS)
• Student Association of Campus Activities (SACA)
• Student Organizations policies and procedures oversight
• Student Volunteer Connection (SVC)
• Veterans Alliance at Texas State (VATS)

Amenities, Retail and Food Venues

• Boko’s Living Room and Lounge
• Full-service Wells Fargo Bank and ATM
• George’s, a multipurpose venue featuring 8 televisions, pool tables, ping-pong, snacks, beverages and various student events
• Revolution Noodle, Tu Taco, Mondo Subs, Chick-fil-A, and Starbucks
• Meeting rooms and two ballrooms
• The Market Place, featuring a convenience store, Pizza Hut, Global Evolution and 512 Burgers
• Study areas and student lounges throughout the building
• LBJ Computer Lab on the second floor
• Information Desk, Lost and Found
• University Bookstore 

Departments Located Within the LBJ Student Center Include:

• Alumni and Welcome Center
• Career Services
• Counseling Center
• Disability Services
• Dean of Students Office
  • Alcohol and Drug Compliance Services
  • Attorney for Students
  • CARE Center
  • Ombuds Services
  • Student Conduct and Community Standards
• ID Services
• Student Involvement and Engagement:
  • Fraternity and Sorority Life
  • Student Government
  • Leadership and Service
  • Operations and Assessment
  • Student Involvement   

The LBJ Student Center Parking Garage offers parking by the hour.

201 San Marcos Springs Drive, San Marcos Texas 78666
512.245.9200

The Meadows Center for Water and the Environment is dedicated to inspiring research, innovation and leadership that ensures clean, abundant water for the environment and all humanity. Our headquarters are located at the headwaters of the San Marcos River, campus’ most beautiful natural feature, where hundreds of crystal-clear springs bubble up from the Edwards Aquifer to form Spring Lake. The springs feed the San Marcos River, which meanders through campus and San Marcos and provides a home to several endangered and threatened species. Archaeological research at the site shows that human habitation around the springs dates back to more than 12,000 years ago, making it one of the longest continuously inhabited sites in North America.

Formerly a resort known as Aquarena Springs, the Meadows Center is a showcase for research, education, stewardship and environmental leadership projects. The center brings together departments and research centers to both engage in scholarly inquiry and provide practical science-based opportunities across Texas and around the world for faculty, staff, and students. 

The center is open to the public seven days a week and features interpreter-led tours, a Discovery Hall with interactive exhibits and aquaria, and a floating wetlands boardwalk. We also offer a range of exciting educational experiences including snorkeling, kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, and scuba diving. Drop by to take a tour on our famous glass-bottom boats for a close-up view of the crystal-clear San Marcos Springs or for a relaxing stroll on the boardwalk and grounds to see wildlife!

One of the things that make Texas State unique is the San Marcos River. This beautiful river is home to the world’s only naturally-occurring population of Texas wild rice, Zizania texana, located primarily along a two-mile stretch of the river’s headwaters.

Texas wild rice is a federally protected endangered species. Various factors, including increased water-related recreational activities in the San Marcos River, have increased the risk potential for wild rice populations, mainly as a result of physical disturbance. In addition, the Texas Legislature enacted a law that brought various stakeholders together in an effort to develop a recovery implementation program with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service for species associated with the Edwards Aquifer that are listed as threatened or endangered under federal law. As a consequence, the group of stakeholders developed and adopted a Habitat Conservation Plan to protect those species that depend on a healthy aquatic ecosystem for survival, including Texas wild rice. In 2012, the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department adopted regulations concerning the area of the San Marcos River extending from the Spring Lake Dam downstream to the area near the San Marcos Water Treatment Plant (31 Tex. Admin. Code § 57.910). This approximately two-mile segment of the public waters of the San Marcos River is identified as the San Marcos River State Scientific Area. The intent of the rule is to offer additional protection to Texas wild rice.

It is unlawful to uproot wild rice within the San Marcos River State Scientific Area. In addition, the state rule allows the designation of restricted areas of the river associated with Texas wild rice stands that could be temporarily designated as off-limits to unauthorized entry when the river’s flow falls below 120 cubic feet per second. Areas designated as off-limits are clearly marked with equipment such as booms or buoys and signage at river access points to inform the public. When conditions necessitate the temporary designation of restricted areas, the river will not at any point within the area be completely blocked to public access or use.

It is a Class C Parks and Wildlife Code (§13.112) misdemeanor offense for any person to (1) move, remove, deface, alter or destroy any sign, buoy, boom or other such marking delineating the boundaries of the San Marcos River State Scientific Area or a restricted area within its boundaries; (2) uproot Texas wild rice within the San Marcos River State Scientific Area; or (3) enter an area that is marked by signage, booms, buoys or other apparatus clearly identifying the area as a restricted area, except as may be expressly authorized by the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department or the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.

Sessom Drive and Academy Street
512.245.2940
Current student ID required for entrance.
Parking available in the Speck Garage. 

The Student Recreation Center (aka The Rec or SRC) was designed specifically for students! This massive facility provides students easy access to quality, contemporary and modern equipment. Our vision is to inspire Bobcats to be their best and create lasting memories.

The Rec features:

• Basketball courts
• Boxing studio
• Cardio area
• Changing rooms with showers & lockers
• Climbing wall
• Functional training space
• Golf simulator
• Indoor track
• Multipurpose rooms
• Swimming pools
• Racquetball courts
• Shake Smart
• Volleyball courts
• Weight room

Disc Golf Course

Mostly hilly terrain, basket targets, mix of open and wooded spaces.

Fields

Bobcat Village fields - Two skinned infields located at Aquarena Springs Dr. and Post Rd. across from Bobcat Stadium.

Intramural "IM" fields - One grass infield and one skinned infield located near the University Events Center at Aquarena Springs Dr. and Charles Austin Dr.

Spring Lake fields - Two ballfields located at Post Rd. and Bert Brown St.

Tennis court field - One open space located at E. Sessom Dr. and Peques St.

West Campus field - One ballfield with a cinder track located at Academy St. and Speck St.

Natatorium

Located in the Student Recreation Center
512.245.8454
recaquatics@txstate.edu
recsafety@txstate.edu

The Student Recreation Center’s Natatorium features two pools; one is a lap lane pool, and the second is a leisure pool. The lap lane pool features six lanes, each 25 yards in length, and a depth ranging from four to nine feet. The leisure pool features warmer water, benches for lounging and areas for playing water basketball and volleyball. An array of classes is offered including CPR/AED classes, lifeguard training, instructor-level classes, and swim lessons.

Sewell Park

University Drive and San Marcos River
Outdoor Center
512.245.2004

Sewell Park is the university’s six-acre riverside park along the banks of the San Marcos River near its headwaters in Spring Lake. The park is open to students, faculty and staff for sand volleyball, outdoor basketball, swimming, snorkeling, paddling, picnics or just catching some rays on the grassy banks of the river.

Shake Smart

Located in the Student Recreation Center

Your one-stop destination for post-gym fuel, offering freshly blended protein shakes, organic acai bowls, and all-natural sandwiches. Shake Smart is a fast and convenient way to fuel your lifestyle.

University Camp

512.245.2004

The 126-acre University Camp, located near Wimberley on the Blanco River, features nine campsites, four day-use areas, two lodges, four miles of trails, picnic areas, and is home to the Team Building program challenge course. All visits to University Camp are by reservation only. Kayaks and mountain bikes are available for rent & firewood is sold onsite. The Blanco River is a beautiful and secluded spot for swimming, wading, kayaking, fishing and sunbathing. For more information and to make your reservation today, visit the University Camp website or call 512.245.2004.

512.245.3681

The University Libraries provide key services and resources that fuel the success of research and innovation at Texas State University. University Libraries comprise three facilities and two prestigious collections that are continually evolving to meet the needs of the growing university and an ever-changing, technology-driven world.

The Albert B. Alkek Library offers library patrons the opportunity to explore, create and discover in an expansive, seven-story building at the heart of the San Marcos campus that is packed with resources, technology and spaces for quiet or collaborative research and study. Library staffers organize many workshops and activities throughout the year that support academic and research literacy and insight, offer opportunities for hands-on innovation and creation, and provide social and stress-relieving interplay. The Alkek Library is continuously evolving to add new features and technology that serve the campus and community. The first floor of the building is home to technology and innovation exploration opportunities available to all students, faculty and staff. Alkek One features new and emerging technologies in its MakerSpace, GeoSpace, Immersion Studio, YouStar Studios and DesighSpace. The Alkek Library website provides convenient 24/7 access to information about library services and resources.

The Round Rock Campus Library (RRC Library) supports the research and information needs of faculty and students at the growing Round Rock Campus. Librarians and library assistants are on site to help guide research and support students and faculty in Round Rock. Materials from the Alkek Library can be delivered so that the RRC benefits from all the resources of a large university library in the intimate and comfortable environment of the RRC Library. The library is located in room 255 of the Avery Building and makes resources, computers and printers available to the campus community. For more information, including hours and other services, visit the RRC Library website or call the library at 512.716.4700.

The Archives and Research Center (ARC) is a state-of-the-art archive library that preserves decades of university treasures and library resources, collections and research materials. Its climate-controlled environment with cold temperatures and low humidity prolongs the life of these unique assets, keeping them available for exploration and discovery while supporting the growth of the Alkek Library and Texas State. The ARC is open to the public and has a circulation desk and reading room to allow students, faculty, staff and researchers to check out items to take with them or review and interact with the materials on site. Daily transportation of materials checked out from the ARC to the Alkek Library will make accessing the materials quick and easy so patrons on the San Marcos campus will not need to drive to STAR Park to retrieve desired items.

Committed to preserving the creative legacy of the Southwest to instruct and inspire future generations, The Wittliff Collections, located on the 7^th floor of the Alkek Library, includes the Southwestern Writers Collection, the Southwestern and Mexican Photography Collection, and the Texas Music Collection. These three cultural pillars provide the keystone for discovery of our region’s heritage through thousands of archival treasures collected firsthand from such icons as Cormac McCarthy, Sandra Cisneros and Willie Nelson. The Wittliff features beautiful new galleries, exhibition spaces, an archival research room and an event space. Faculty, students and campus visitors are encouraged to check out the museum-like galleries free of charge. The Wittliff space also features a permanent display of its Lonesome Dove collection with original set pieces and costumes from the renowned miniseries.

The University Archives provides the key to unlock the stories of Texas State University that connect its past to its present. The Archives preserves and makes available a treasure trove of materials including original documents, photographs, yearbooks and a variety of artifacts that help tell how the institution has evolved from a small teachers' college to an emerging research university.  New materials are added to the Archives through the transfer of records from university departments and the acquisition of select items from donors; these materials document the history and legacy of the university and provide researchers with unique sources of information about Texas State and the surrounding community. Of special note are the accessions of photographic negatives held by the University Archives, which together form the most comprehensive collection of historical photographs related to the Hays County region of Texas.

Texas State’s University Libraries services include:

Research Help

Individual research consultation sessions are available to students, faculty and staff. Consultations allow users to work one-on-one with librarians. Typical sessions include help with research topics and search strategies, as well as tips for navigating the library for a successful academic experience. Users can schedule a consultation in advance to ensure availability, preferably with at least two days’ notice. Users can also access the Ask a Librarian online chat service via the Ask a Librarian webpage.

Research Guides

The library website provides access to a variety of research guides for specific disciplines and subjects, as well as guides for conducting research. These guides are created by subject librarians and will help students learn more about core resources in a specific discipline. Guides are available for all library users and provide an excellent starting point for research by helping users learn more about the library’s growing array of resources in all disciplines.

Resources and Tools for Research

In addition to in-person and online consultation with library staff, students have access to a variety of resources and tools that will help them to conduct research efficiently and effectively for class assignments and research projects.

Electronic Databases and Journals

Texas State faculty, students and staff have convenient remote online access to many electronic databases and journals. Databases are listed on the library website and are arranged by type, subject and alphabetically by name. Databases can be searched to find research articles, government documents, conference proceedings, business and company information, and much more. The Start Your Research search box on the main library website provides an easy way to search multiple databases, in addition to the library catalog, all at one time. 

Library Online Catalog

The library’s online catalog provides information on the library’s holdings and allows searching by keyword, title, author or subject as well as by material type.

Periodicals (Journals, Magazines, Newspapers)

The Periodical List is a comprehensive list of all full-text periodical titles that the Alkek Library either owns or subscribes to for the Texas State community. The list consists of:

• Electronic journals that are included in full-text databases or e-journal packages to which the library has a current subscription
• Individual electronic journals or online journals that come free with the library’s print subscriptions (provided the publisher allows institutional access)
• Journals and periodicals the library owns in print or microform

Obtaining Materials from Other LibrariesTexShare and ILLiad

Some student research needs may require access to items not owned by the university. Many can be obtained from other libraries.

• One way to access them is to get a TexShare card, available at the Checkout desk. TexShare allows users to check out books from most college and university libraries as well as major public libraries throughout Texas. For more information about the TexShare card, contact the Checkout desk at 512.245.3681. Users can request a TexShare card online through the library's website.
• Another convenient method to get materials not owned by University Libraries is via Interlibrary Loan (ILLiad), a free service for Texas State faculty, students and staff. ILLiad, the online request form, is a convenient way to make a request. Logging into ILLiad will allow users to access requested articles, obtain a list of materials requested, check on the status of requests and request renewals of books loaned from other libraries. Some items such as full-text articles may be delivered electronically. Other items such as books loaned from other libraries around the world will be available for pickup at the Checkout desk of Alkek Library or from the RRC Library. Interlibrary Loan staff is available Monday-Friday, 8 a.m.-5 p.m., at 512.245.4893. Access more information about Interlibrary Loan on the library's website.

Computers, Laptops, Printers and Wireless Access

University Libraries and campus TechSpots have wireless access, device charging stations and multiple printers. The Alkek Library has numerous Mac and PC computer workstations available for student use running a variety of software applications, including standard word processing, spreadsheet and presentation software, as well as specialized programs. Sophisticated statistical analysis software, GIS services, several 3D printers, laptops and adaptive equipment for individuals with disabilities also can be found at the Alkek Library. Campus TechSpots, formerly known as open computer labs, serve as an extension of the library making access to computer workstations loaded with software and online library services available across the San Marcos campus. They can be found in the Jowers, McCoy, and the Family and Consumer Science buildings as well as the Academic Services Building South.

Send&Print Services and Kiosks

Send&Print is a service that allows Texas State students, faculty and staff to conveniently print to one of the various printing stations located on both the San Marcos and Round Rock campuses. Students are provided with a generous printing allotment each semester. Printing kiosks are located in the Alkek and RRC Libraries and the campus TechSpots. In the fall of 2021, new standalone Send&Print kiosks will be added at various locations across the San Marcos campus to make it more convenient than ever to print materials. Consult the TXST Mobile App or the interactive online campus map to find the nearest TechSpot or Send&Print kiosk.

Alkek Library, seventh floor
512.245.2313
thewittliffcollections@txstate.edu

Admission is free.

The Wittliff Collections are a crown jewel of Texas State and preserve and celebrate the Southwest’s literature, music, film and photography. Here one can listen to a reading by a nationally acclaimed writer, engage in hands-on research using an author’s original papers, hear photographers talk about their inspiration, or attend one of the many other exciting events offered every semester. Many students also retreat to The Wittliff to contemplate exhibitions of world-class photography or archival objects that speak to our region’s “spirit of place.” 

The exhibition and event calendars are online. Exhibitions are usually open daily; however, hours fluctuate — visitors are asked to call or check the website for updates. Admission is free, and all are welcome.

The Wittliff Collections are dedicated to supporting student and faculty research at Texas State. Stop by or call and ask to speak to a curator or archivist about the many possible topics within the unique and interesting holdings. The Wittliff holds writers’ papers from Cormac McCarthy, Sandra Cisneros, Rick Riordan, Katherine Anne Porter and many more. Nearly 20,000 photographs are also part of the growing permanent holdings, including works by such renowned artists as Ansel Adams, Manuel Álvarez Bravo, Kate Breakey, Keith Carter, Graciela Iturbide and Mary Ellen Mark. The Wittliff is home to one of the largest collections of Mexican photography in the United States, as well as the major production archives of Texas Monthly magazine, King of the Hill, and the miniseries Lonesome Dove. Over its more than 30-year history, The Wittliff has obtained many important music collections, such as an extraordinary Willie Nelson archive that includes his handmade childhood songbook; hand-written lyrics by Towns Van Zandt; a Western Swing treasury with a fiddle played by Bob Wills; and major research archives on artists ranging from Selena to Stevie Ray Vaughan to Jerry Jeff Walker to Ray Benson of Asleep At The Wheel. 

Additionally, The Wittliff collects rare first editions and other books, magazines, LPs, 45s, CDs, DVDs, screenplays and teleplays, and numerous other supplementary materials related to the literature, music, film and photography of the Southwest — all of which are available for study.