When a book, video or database that you would like to consult is not available through BU libraries, a public library may be a solution. Many Boston area public libraries have collections that include popular books, DVDs, CDs and other materials that university libraries may not have.

To obtain a Boston Public Library card, it is not necessary to reside in the city of Boston. Any Massachusetts resident is eligible. A card and PIN number is all that you need to access the full range of databases made available through BPL. Among the online BPL resources that have helped BU Law researchers are news sources such as America’s Historical Newspapers (1690-1922); and topical databases in such areas as business and health.

The Minuteman Library Network (MLN) is a consortium of public libraries from dozens of surrounding towns, including Brookline and Cambridge. Residents of any town within the MLN system can get a library card that allows them to use and borrow from all 42 member libraries.

BU Law community members can request items through the law library’s interlibrary loan (ILL) service, when a book, article or other item is not available through BU campus resources. Among other alternative sources, consider also the Boston Library Consortium (BLC). The BLC allows BU faculty, staff and graduate students to visit and borrow from 19 major research libraries (including Boston College and MIT) in the region. Note: It is necessary to obtain a BLC consortium card to borrow from BLC libraries.