Government law libraries exist to serve national, state or provincial, and local government entities. They are found within legislative bodies, courts, and agencies, in order to serve their employees' legal-informational needs, as well as, in some cases, practicing attorneys and the public. Government law librarians tend to hold MLIS degrees. Some larger government law libraries may also require JDs.

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There are three main types of law libraries:

- Academic law libraries
- Government law libraries
- Private law libraries

Types of Law Libraries

American Association of Law Libraries. (2018, February 6). Types of law libraries. American Association of Law Libraries. Retrieved September 28, 2021, from https://www.aallnet.org/careers/about-the-profession/types-of-law-libraries/. 

Private law libraries are law libraries that exist within large private law firms and companies. Most private law libraries are relatively small, requiring the librarians who work there to be able to perform a wide range of different functions. A key function is the ability to locate hard-to-find information on a timely manner. Private law librarians tend to hold MLIS degrees. JDs may also be occasionally, but not typically, required, depending on the position.

Private Law Libraries

Government Law Libraries

Academic law libraries are found at university and other college law schools, serving students and staff. Academic law librarians tend to, but do not always, have both a Juris Doctorate (law degree), and a Master of Library and Infromation Sciences or equivalent degree from an American Library Association-accredited library school. Their size varies depending on the size of the university or college they are serving.

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