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Your Trusted Legal Resource in Santa Barbara County
We are Santa Barbara County Law Library, a public institution dedicated to providing accessible legal information resources to residents of Santa Barbara County. Our two branches in Santa Barbara and Santa Maria offer comprehensive collections of printed legal materials, electronic databases, and research assistance to support self-represented litigants, legal professionals, and the general public. With over 40 years of service, our experienced staff maintains a commitment to legal education through curated resources including LexisNexis, Westlaw, and NOLO press materials available via secure library access. We operate under strict guidelines to ensure information accuracy while maintaining partnerships with local courts and legal aid organizations. Our facilities feature designated research areas, public computer terminals with legal software, and specialized collections covering family law, civil procedure, and California-specific statutes.

We maintain transparent operating hours across both locations with holiday closures aligned with federal and state observances. Our team provides technical assistance for database navigation while emphasizing the importance of verified legal research practices. We collaborate with the Superior Court system to maintain physical proximity to judicial resources, ensuring convenient access for courthouse visitors. Our service model prioritizes equitable access to justice through free public resources while maintaining strict adherence to legal information standards.
Services
Legal Research Access Electronic Databases Public Access Terminals Holiday Schedule Info Court Resource Connection
Highlights and features
  • We offer free access to premium legal databases through secure library networks
  • Our staff provides technical assistance for legal research tools and databases
  • We maintain physical proximity to courthouse resources in both locations
  • Our collections include specialized California legal practice materials
  • We operate under strict information accuracy verification protocols
Services
Legal Research Access
We provide public access to comprehensive legal research materials including case law, statutes, and legal treatises. Our collections support both self-represented litigants and legal professionals through physical and digital resources. Patrons receive technical assistance for navigating research databases and verifying legal information sources.
Electronic Databases
Our electronic database access includes LexisNexis, Westlaw, and NOLO press materials through secure library networks. These resources require on-site access for most subscriptions with remote access available for select services. Staff provide login assistance and research guidance.
Public Access Terminals
We maintain public computer terminals with specialized legal software and internet access to approved legal resources. Usage includes time limits to ensure equitable access for all patrons seeking legal research assistance and document preparation tools.
Questions
What locations does the law library operate?
We have two branches: 1100 Anacapa St., 2nd Floor Santa Barbara, CA and 312 E. Cook St. Santa Maria, CA.
What are the library's operating hours?
Monday-Friday 9:00 am to 4:00 pm. Thursday hours include a lunch closure from 12:00-1:00 pm in Santa Maria.
Can I access legal databases remotely?
Most databases require on-site access. NOLO press materials offer remote access with login credentials obtained through library staff.
Do you provide legal advice?
No, we do not provide legal advice or perform legal research. We offer access to legal resources for self-guided research.