Public Interest Membership

state capital building

Who is eligible?

  • Any attorney practicing with an agency or instrumentality of a federal, state, or municipal government in Maine.

  • Any attorney practicing with a public-interest non-profit entity whose office is in Maine.

  • Membership continues only while the member remains eligible for the Public Interest Membership.

How does it work?

  • Remote Services. Use the email address associated with your qualifying employer to request electronic delivery of materials and documents, such as legislative histories, AI-assisted research, or scanned copies from our print collection.

  • In-Person Services. Present your employer-issued identification or provide your Maine bar number to use the notary service, attend programs and events, or take advantage of other in-person services.

  • Borrowing materials. Borrow materials from the library’s print collection using the email system described in the library’s Borrowing Procedure.

  • Benefit use. Membership benefits may be used only for purposes related to the Public Interest Member’s employment. To enjoy membership for personal use, a Public Interest Member must apply for an Individual Attorney Membership.

What is the cost?

  • Public Interest Memberships are provided at no charge and do not require application.

  • Public Interest Members who wish to use the library outside of regular business hours may purchase an after-hours access card for an annual fee of $25.

How do I request an after-hours access card?

  • Apply Online. Complete the application and pay the fee online.

  • Apply on Paper. Download the Access Card Application and mail or deliver your completed application and check to:

    The Nathan & Henry B. Cleaves Law Library
    142 Federal Street
    Third Floor
    Portland, ME 04101

Need more information?

For more information about membership or after-hours access, contact the library or review the Membership Policy.