U.S Courts Library - 8th Circuit

Reference and Research Services
and Policies

Assistance with legal research is available to federal court personnel and on a limited basis to other government personnel, members of the local bar, and public patrons.

We ask that library users maintain a sense of decorum when using the library. Smoking, eating, and disruptive behavior are not permitted. Anyone who violates library rules or behaves in a disruptive manner will be required to leave and will be barred from re-entering the library.

For more information on photocopies, library computer use, or any other issues, please contact the library nearest you.

Public Patrons: What We Can Do

• Locate available court information and materials
• Provide basic reference help (phone numbers, definitions, legal aid resources)
• Provide basic instructions for using legal materials
• Locate and/or verify citations
• Refer you to libraries that have materials we do not own
• Assist with photocopiers, printers, etc.

Public Patrons: What We Cannot Do

• Provide legal advice or opinions, or interpret any laws or legal documents
• Assist with preparation of cases or legal forms
• Provide in-depth reference or access fee-based information databases (such as WESTLAW or LEXIS)
• Check out library materials or borrow items from other libraries
• Do photocopying or make telephone calls
• Allow use of office equipment, telephones or supplies