Plan Your Visit
Resources
Visitors are invited to browse our print collection, use our online legal research databases, connect to our Wi-Fi, and more. Borrowing privileges are reserved for library members.Photocopying and Binding
A self-service copier and self-service comb binding machine are available for public use.
25¢ per page
$1.00 per comb
Research Assistance
Cleaves Law Library provides members of the public access to legal resources and information. The librarian can help visitors locate materials and understand how to use resources.
The librarian cannot
give legal advice or recommend a course of action,
suggest what forms to use or how to complete them, or
conduct legal research on behalf of nonmembers.
Patrons needing legal advice should consider consulting an attorney.
Take a Tour
Reading Room
The Reading Room is the library’s main workspace. Visitors will find a quiet place for research, convenient access to current Maine legal materials, complimentary WiFi, and a self-service copier.
Computer Room
Looking for Westlaw, Lexis, or HeinOnline? The Computer Room provides complimentary access to subscription legal research databases, along with the library’s microfiche collection of Law Court briefs and appendices.
The Stacks
Browse more than 30,000 legal volumes organized by subject matter. From practice guides and treatises to federal and state materials, the Stacks contain resources for nearly every area of the law. Clear signage and research guides make it easy to explore.
Librarian’s Office
Have a question? Stop by the Librarian’s Office to ask about the library’s collections and services.
The office also houses many of the library’s oldest materials, which may be available for inspection upon request.
Hallway
The Hallway features the library’s collection of out-of-state statutes and historical directories.
Visitors will also find photographs celebrating the library’s more than two centuries of service and Maine’s legal history.
Bathrooms
Three individual restrooms are available for visitors.
Before You Visit
Address:
142 Federal Street
Third Floor
Portland, ME 04101
Public Hours:
Monday – Friday
9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
Member Hours:
Seven days a week with an access card.
6:00 a.m. - 11:00 p.m.
Phone:
(207) 773-9712
Email:
cleaveslawlibrary@gmail.com
Parking & Public Transportation
The library is located in the heart of the government district close to public transportation. Parking is available in nearby parking garages, parking lots, and surrounding streets.
Finding the Library
The library is in the Cumberland County Courthouse (the courthouse is located between Lincoln Park and the Portland Police Department). All visitors must pass through courthouse screening. After screening, visitors may take the elevator to the third floor where they will find the library.
Court Closures
Because Cleaves Law Library is located in the Cumberland County Courthouse, the library is closed to the public whenever the courthouse is closed, including for holidays and inclement weather.
Thursday, January 1, 2026 New Year’s Day
Monday, January 19, 2026 Martin Luther King Jr. Day
Monday, February 16, 2026 Presidents’ Day
Monday, April 20, 2026 Patriot’s Day
Monday, May 25, 2026 Memorial Day
Friday, June 19, 2026 Juneteenth
Friday, July 3, 2026 Independence Day
Monday, September 7, 2026 Labor Day
Monday, October 12, 2026 Indigenous Peoples’ Day
Wednesday, November 11, 2026 Veterans’ Day
Thursday, November 26, 2026 Thanksgiving
Friday, November 27, 2026 Day After Thanksgiving
Friday, December 25, 2026 Christmas
Other Closures
Occasionally, the library may close or operate with modified hours to accommodate library events, staff scheduling, or other operational needs. Upcoming closures will be listed below, whenever practicable.
Wednesday, November 4 12:00 - 1:15 p.m.
Thursday, November 19 12:00 - 1:15 p.m.
Friday, November 20 1:00 - 3:15 p.m.
