The University of Michigan Law Library is one of the largest and most renowned law libraries in the United States. Located in the heart of the University of Michigan Law School's campus in Ann Arbor, Michigan, the library serves as a hub for legal research, education, and scholarship. With a rich history dating back to 1859, the library has evolved to meet the changing needs of the legal community, providing access to a vast array of print and digital resources, cutting-edge technology, and expert research assistance.
History and Development
The University of Michigan Law Library was founded in 1859, with a modest collection of 348 volumes. Over the years, the library has undergone significant transformations, driven by the growth of the law school and the increasing demands of legal research. In the early 20th century, the library moved to its current location in the Law Quad, a stunning example of Gothic Revival architecture. The library’s collections have expanded exponentially, with over 1 million volumes, including rare books, manuscripts, and digital resources. The library has also adapted to the digital age, providing access to a wide range of online databases, e-journals, and digital repositories.
Collection Highlights
The University of Michigan Law Library boasts an impressive collection of legal materials, including:
- Over 1 million print volumes, covering a broad range of subjects, from constitutional law to international human rights
- A comprehensive collection of digital resources, including online databases, e-journals, and digital repositories, such as Westlaw, LexisNexis, and HeinOnline
- A rare book room, featuring historic volumes, including a 16th-century edition of the Corpus Juris Civilis and a 17th-century edition of the Institutes of Justinian
- Manuscript collections, including the papers of notable jurists, such as Justice Frank Murphy and Judge Thurman Arnold
| Collection Category | Number of Volumes |
|---|---|
| Print Volumes | 1,045,000 |
| Digital Resources | 250,000+ |
| Rare Books | 5,000+ |
| Manuscripts | 1,500+ |
Research Assistance and Services
The University of Michigan Law Library offers a range of research assistance and services, designed to support the academic and professional needs of its users. These include:
- Expert research assistance, provided by a team of experienced librarians and research attorneys
- Individual and group study spaces, equipped with state-of-the-art technology and comfortable seating
- Instructional programs, covering topics such as legal research, writing, and citation
- Access to online databases and digital repositories, including Westlaw, LexisNexis, and HeinOnline
Key Points
- The University of Michigan Law Library is one of the largest and most renowned law libraries in the United States
- The library's collections include over 1 million print volumes, digital resources, rare books, and manuscripts
- The library offers expert research assistance, individual and group study spaces, and instructional programs
- The library provides access to online databases and digital repositories, including Westlaw, LexisNexis, and HeinOnline
- The library's rare book room and manuscript collections are a valuable resource for researchers and scholars
Technology and Innovation
The University of Michigan Law Library is committed to leveraging technology to enhance the research experience and support the academic and professional needs of its users. The library has implemented a range of innovative solutions, including:
- A state-of-the-art online catalog, providing easy access to the library’s collections
- A digital repository, featuring a wide range of scholarly articles, research papers, and other digital content
- A virtual reference service, allowing users to ask questions and receive research assistance remotely
As the legal landscape continues to evolve, the University of Michigan Law Library remains at the forefront of innovation, providing its users with the tools, resources, and expertise needed to succeed in an increasingly complex and dynamic environment.
What are the library's hours of operation?
+The library is open Monday through Friday from 8am to 10pm, Saturday from 9am to 10pm, and Sunday from 10am to 10pm.
How do I access the library's digital resources?
+Users can access the library's digital resources through the library's website, using their University of Michigan login credentials.
Can I get research assistance from a librarian?
+Yes, the library offers expert research assistance from a team of experienced librarians and research attorneys. Users can ask questions in person, by phone, or through the library's virtual reference service.
The University of Michigan Law Library is a vibrant and dynamic institution, committed to supporting the academic and professional needs of its users. With its vast collections, innovative technology, and expert research assistance, the library is an indispensable resource for anyone involved in the study and practice of law.
