Social Law Library, Law library in Boston, Massachusetts, US.
The Social Law Library in Boston is a law library housed in the John Adams Courthouse with approximately 450,000 volumes of legal documents in its collection. The collection is supplemented by digital databases accessible through its website, allowing legal professionals to conduct comprehensive research on cases and statutes.
The library was founded in 1803 and is the second oldest law library in the United States. Since its establishment, it has continuously supported generations of legal professionals in their work.
The library serves as a meeting place where Boston's legal professionals gather to access resources and conduct their daily work. Over time, it has become a hub where attorneys and judges connect and collaborate on cases that shape the city's legal landscape.
The library provides access to specialized research databases and continuing education programs for members, with complimentary use available for state government employees. Visitors should confirm what access options apply to their profession before planning a visit.
In 1804, the library was the place where Gold v. Eddy, the first officially reported court decision in Massachusetts, was published. This event established a precedent for creating a permanent record of judicial decisions that would influence legal practice across the nation.
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