Libraries
Libraries
There are no public law libraries in the UK. Some university and research libraries allow access to members of the public, but this may incur a cost. Additionally, access to legal subscription databases is likely to be limited and print collections reference only.
This section provides suggestions around the types of materials that might be found in different types of libraries, specific libraries and how to seek support (although there may be a fee to access collections or research support).
Public libraries can be good for introductory and student texts. You may also find they hold titles in particular areas of law such as business or tax. They are not likely to have legal databases, but may have apps such as PressReader and Libby for access to magazines, newspapers and trade publications.
Though public libraries can exist in cities, towns and villages, you are more likely to find the resources and staff you need in the larger branches.
Map of UK public libraries: Find your nearest library | LibraryOn
The British Library - national library of the UK with locations in London and Yorkshire - has collections of print and electronic law resources. These can be accessed, requested and consulted for free with a Reader Pass.
There are many specialist law libraries in the UK. However, the majority of these are not open to the general public. This includes the Inns of Court Libraries: Inner Temple, Gray's Inn, Lincoln's Inn, and Middle Temple.
The Law Society library can be accessed by non-members at a cost and by application only. It does not include access to subscription databases.
Not all university libraries will have law collections, and they will vary in size and scope. It is worth looking at their online catalogue (if available) before contacting them. You can search academic libraries in the UK using this map: Library search | Sconul Access
Below are links to some excellent guides and resource lists created by academic librarians:
| Link | Description |
| Lawlinks - UK resources | University of Kent | Links to legal information in UK jurisdictions. |
| Lawlinks - Special legal topics | University of Kent | Links to websites containing information about specific areas of the law (arbitration, family etc.) |
| IALS Library Guides - United Kingdom - LibGuides at Institute of Advanced Legal Studies | The Institute of Advanced Legal Studies guide to legal research in the jurisdiction of the UK. |
| Home - Law - Oxford LibGuides at Oxford University | Library guide intended for students and researchers studying law at the University of Oxford, but contains useful guidance and links to sources of free information. |
As outlined in the Prison education & library services for adult prison in England policy framework, the following publications must be available in prison libraries:
- Archbold’s Criminal Pleading, Evidence and Practice
- The Civil Procedure Rules (The White Book)
- Extant Prison Service Instructions (PSIs) and Prison Service Orders (PSOs), Policy
- Frameworks (when published) excluding those that have restrictions placed on them.
- The Prison Rules 1999 and The Young Offender Institution Rules 2000
The White Book (or books, as it consists of 2 huge volumes) contains the Civil Procedure Rules, the relevant sources of law and substantial expert commentary.
The video below is useful as an introduction (please note this is aimed at students so you can ignore the section on tabbing unless you have a personal copy!):