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Our History

The Allegheny County Law Library was established in 1867 by Act No. 1211 when the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania directed Allegheny County to use some of the money collected from fines and forfeitures to open a specialized public library. Since then, ACLL has proudly been the only public library in the County.  

Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh (CLP) has partnered with Allegheny County to assume responsibility for the management and operations of ACLL. Through this unique partnership, ACLL’s expertise in legal information is reaching a broad audience and connecting users to the combined benefits of utilizing the public libraries in Allegheny County. CLP took over management of ACLL in 2023. Prior to CLP’s management, Duquesne University oversaw ACLL’s operations from 1999 – 2023. 

ACLL has proudly serviced the legal information needs of Allegheny County for over 150 years. Through knowledge, connection, and has served the legal information needs of Allegheny County. By assisting the Bench, the Bar, and community members ACLL builds connections to legal information for all who seek it.  

Services at the ACLL

Legal Databases

The library has several databases specifically for legal research and information. Some databases are able to be accessed remotely with a Law Library membership.

The Collections

The library’s collection consists of more than 150,000 volumes dating from 1488 to the present, including rare books and Microforms. Collections can be searched through the online catalog and most materials can be requested to be sent to any Allegheny County Public Library with your standard library card.

Legal Research

The library offers legal information and research assistance. Library staff can help users locate statutes, case law, regulations, and legal forms. Additionally the Library hosts a variety of legal information related classes and workshops.