State Law Library

Frequently Asked Questions
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    What are the library hours?
    The library is open from 8:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., Monday through Friday.​
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    Where can I park?
    Parking in Providence and Newport is limited to on street parking and fee based parking garages. Free parking is available at Kent and Washington counties​.
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    Is the library open to the public?
    Yes, the library is supported by public funds and is open to all. However, materials circulate only to the bench, the bar, and to self-represented litigants with a pending case in the Rhode Island courts. ​
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    How long do materials circulate?
    The general rule is that materials circulate for fourteen (14) days, except for LOAN designated materials that circulate for twenty-eight (28) days.​
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    Can I renew materials?
    Materials can be renewed for an additional fourteen (14) days and twenty-eight (28) days.​
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    What materials circulate?

    The Rhode Island State Law Library is primarily a research library and as such, many of the materials do not circulate. These include reporters, digests, statutes, etc. Treatises covering a wide variety of legal issues do circulate; however, they are subject to recall if needed by a member of the courts or the practicing bar. We ask your cooperation with this generous policy and promptly return recalled items.​

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    Is there photocopying and printing?

    Limited complimentary printing for court-related business is available at all libraries.​

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    Can the library provide legal advice?

    No. State Law Library staff members are not licensed attorneys and therefore cannot give legal advice or interpret the law, nor should any response given be construed or interpreted as legal advice.​

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    Are Internet and computer services available?

    All the libraries, both the main library and counties, have public access computers.

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    How are the databases accessed?

    Due to contractual obligations and copyright restrictions, all databases must be used within the court network. Some require a password. Please ask at the circulation desk to sign on these databases. Other databases allow seamless access throughout the network​.

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    Does the library provide instruction?

    Yes, library staff will be happy to provide instruction on accessing and maximizing functionality on databases.