Tough Topics

Download the Tough Topics Brochure (PDF)

If you have any questions about finding items, please ask staff. We are here to help! You can also check out a Kindle for discreet reading on sensitive topics. 

For more local resources, go to our Social Services page.

Abortion

Due to the recent Supreme Court decision, Wisconsin has suspended abortion services. You can search for care at AbortionFinder.org.

  • Religious Aspects 291.5
  • Political History 362.1988
  • Medical Information 618.392

Abusive Relationships

In the Madison area, you can text (608) 251-4445 or (608) 420-4638 for help. In an emergency, call 911.
More local information available at abuseintervention.org.

  • Psychology of Abusive Relationships 158.2
  • Social Aspects 362.8

Adoption

  • Adopted Children 362.734

Alzheimer’s & Memory Issues

  • Health Information 616.831
  • Information for Caregivers 362.196

Bankruptcy

  • General Information 346.078

Body Changes

  • Aging 571.878
  • Maturity (human physiology) 612.663
  • Gynecology 618.1

Cancer

  • General Information 616.99

Cutting & Self Harm

  • General Information 616.85

Child Custody

  • General Information 346.731

Death & Grief

  • Psychology 155
  • Religious Aspects 296.7

Divorce

  • Self-Help & Psychology 306.89
  • Legal Information 346.73

Drug & Alcohol Addiction

  • Alcoholism 362.292
  • Drug Use 362.973
  • Health Aspects of Addiction 616.86

Eating Disorders

  • Health Information 616.85

Estate Planning & Living Will

  • General Information 346.73

Gambling Addiction

  • 362.25 Gambling
  • 616.85 Compulsive Behavior

Gender Identity

Information on Madison area support groups at www.outreachmadisonlgbt.org/social-support-groups

  • Psychology 155.3
  • History & Social Issues 306.76

Housing Instability

  • Social Conditions 306.0973

Health & Hygiene

  • Health 613
  • Hygiene 613

Infertility

  • Health Information 616.692

Incarceration

  • Arrest 363.232
  • Justice (Law) 340.11

Mental Health

The National Suicide Hotline phone number is 988. In an emergency, call 911.

  • Self Help 362.2
  • Health Information 616.89

Miscarriage

  • Psychology & Grief 155.937
  • Health Information 618.3

Pregnancy

  • Health Information 618.76

Rape

The Rape Crisis Center’s 24-hour phone line: (608)251-7273. In an emergency, call 911.

  • Social Issues 362.88

Sexuality

Information on Madison area support groups at www.outreachmadisonlgbt.org/social-support-groups

  • Psychology 155.3
  • History & Social Issues 306.76

Sexual Health

  •  Relationships 306.7
  •  Sexual Health 616.95

Suicide

The National Suicide Hotline phone number is 988. In an emergency, call 911.

  • Ethics 179.7
  • Religious Aspects 248.8
  •  Mental Illness 362.2