Biddle Law Library Resources

Introduction to Biddle Law Library Resources

The Biddle Law Library is a premier resource for legal research, providing access to a vast array of materials and tools to support the study and practice of law. Located at the University of Pennsylvania Law School, the library is a hub of academic and professional activity, offering a comprehensive collection of legal texts, journals, and databases. In this article, we will explore the various resources available at the Biddle Law Library, highlighting their features and benefits for law students, faculty, and practitioners.

Print and Digital Collections

The Biddle Law Library boasts an extensive collection of print and digital materials, including:

Case law: A comprehensive collection of federal and state court decisions, including the United States Reports and the National Reporter System.
Statutes: Federal and state statutes, including the United States Code and the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes.
Regulations: Federal and state regulatory materials, including the Code of Federal Regulations and the Pennsylvania Code.
Journals and periodicals: A wide range of legal journals and periodicals, including law reviews, bar journals, and specialty publications.
Treatises and practice guides: In-depth treatises and practice guides on various areas of law, including torts, contracts, and intellectual property.

These resources are available in both print and digital formats, allowing users to access them from anywhere and at any time.

Online Databases and Research Tools

The Biddle Law Library provides access to a variety of online databases and research tools, including:

Westlaw: A comprehensive legal research platform offering access to case law, statutes, regulations, and journal articles.
LexisNexis: A legal research platform providing access to case law, statutes, regulations, and news sources.
Bloomberg Law: A legal research platform offering access to case law, statutes, regulations, and business and financial news.
HeinOnline: A digital archive of legal journals, including law reviews, bar journals, and specialty publications.

These databases and tools enable users to conduct efficient and effective research, with features such as full-text searching, citation tools, and alert services.

Research Assistance and Support

The Biddle Law Library offers a range of research assistance and support services, including:

Reference services: Librarians are available to provide research guidance and support, either in person or via email, phone, or chat.
Research consultations: One-on-one research consultations with librarians to discuss research strategies and resources.
Library instruction: Classes and workshops on legal research skills, including database training and research techniques.
Interlibrary loan: A service allowing users to borrow materials from other libraries, including books, articles, and microforms.

These services are designed to help users navigate the library’s resources and conduct effective research.

Facilities and Technology

The Biddle Law Library features state-of-the-art facilities and technology, including:

Study spaces: Quiet study areas, group study rooms, and collaborative workspaces.
Computer labs: Computer labs with access to legal research databases and software.
Printing and scanning: Printing and scanning services, including color printing and large-format printing.
Wi-Fi and network access: Wireless internet access and network connectivity throughout the library.

These facilities and technologies support the research and study needs of law students, faculty, and practitioners.

📚 Note: The Biddle Law Library is committed to providing equal access to its resources and services for users with disabilities.

Special Collections and Archives

The Biddle Law Library houses a number of special collections and archives, including:

Rare books: A collection of rare and historic legal texts, including early editions of Blackstone’s Commentaries and the United States Code.
Manuscripts: A collection of manuscripts and archival materials, including the papers of prominent lawyers and judges.
Oral histories: A collection of oral histories and interviews with lawyers, judges, and law professors.
University archives: A collection of materials documenting the history of the University of Pennsylvania Law School.

These special collections and archives provide a unique window into the history of law and the legal profession.

Collection	Description
Rare books	A collection of rare and historic legal texts
Manuscripts	A collection of manuscripts and archival materials
Oral histories	A collection of oral histories and interviews with lawyers, judges, and law professors
University archives	A collection of materials documenting the history of the University of Pennsylvania Law School

In summary, the Biddle Law Library is a rich resource for legal research and study, offering a comprehensive collection of materials, cutting-edge technology, and expert research assistance. Whether you are a law student, faculty member, or practitioner, the library has something to offer, from its extensive print and digital collections to its special collections and archives.

What are the library’s hours of operation?

The library’s hours of operation vary depending on the time of year and semester. Please check the library’s website for the most up-to-date information.

How do I access the library’s online databases and research tools?

The library’s online databases and research tools are available through the library’s website. You will need to log in with your University of Pennsylvania username and password to access these resources.

Can I request materials from other libraries through interlibrary loan?

Yes, you can request materials from other libraries through interlibrary loan. Please submit your request through the library’s website, and we will do our best to obtain the materials for you.