About
Law Library Archives
The UConn School of Law Archives contain records documenting over ninety years of Law School history. Reflecting the academic work and social activities of the Law School Community, these records include the papers of various offices, faculty and student groups on campus. Also included are Law School course catalogs, handbooks, newspapers, office memoranda, posters, photographs and other ephemera.
Special Collections includes
- United States imprints published before 1870
- Non-United States monographs published before 1860
- Non-United States serials published before 1850
- All Blackstone Commentaries published before 1900
- Connecticut historical primary legal materials
- Commercially published faculty materials
- Items of special significance to the Law School or the Law Library collection
History
Using the Archives
How do I get started?
UConn Law librarians can assist you. E-mail refdesk.lawlib@uconn.edu or call 860-570-5068.
When is Archives & Special Collections open?
There will be no access if a Reference Librarian is not on duty. You can also make an appointment with a Reference Librarian.
Who can use the Special Collections & Archives? Can I visit if I am not affiliated with UConn?
Yes. The Thomas J. Meskill Law Library welcomes anyone with a research interest - students, faculty, staff or the general public. You will need to fill out a request form and present valid identification to use the materials.
How do I find books in Special collections?
Search the online catalogue on the Library website and note the information of the book you wish to request.
May I browse the Special Collections & Archives stacks to find titles?
No. The stacks are closed and only library staff can enter.
What documents are online?
The Library is in the process of becoming a member of the Connecticut Digital Archives. When the Project is completed, you will be able to search the online catalog to find materials and view.
How do I request to use materials in Special Collections & Archives?
You may request to use materials in the Reference Reading Room by filling out a request form and the materials will be pulled for you.
How many items may I request?
You can request up to five (5) volumes from Special Collections and one (1) document box from Archives at a time.
Can I check out materials from Archives & Special Collections?
Materials do not circulate and must be used in the Reference Reading Room. The Usage Policy governs the use of materials in these collections.
Will the Archives & Special Collections staff do research for me?
We will answer reference questions but will not perform extensive research.
How do I obtain copies of documents? And what does it cost?
Photocopying is not permitted because it can damage material in poor or fragile condition. Staff can scan materials, but we cannot scan whole works or large quantities of documents. All copies are made at the discretion of the staff by filling out this form. There is no cost, and, in most cases, we will scan documents within 5 business days.
May I use my camera to copy documents?
Patrons may take digital photographs of collection materials for private study, scholarship and research purposes only, and as allowed by the library, based on the physical condition of the materials, copyright law, donor restrictions, and reading room rules. For our complete policy and to request permission to photograph materials in our collection, please read and complete this form.
Do I need permission to publish materials from Special Collection & Archives?
Yes. Permission to view materials is not an authorization to publish from them. A separate written request for permission to publish must be made identifying the items to be published. Further permission to publish must be obtained from the owner(s) of the copyright. Each researcher must assume full responsibility for any legal questions that may arise as a result of use of materials.
How can I donate historical or archival materials?
Anne Rajotte, Head of Reference Services, will be happy to talk to you about your donation. The staff are not professional appraisers and cannot recommend booksellers to evaluate your materials. The Law School is always seeking written recollections, photographs and other memorabilia as part of our efforts to have a comprehensive history of the school.