Supreme Court of Ohio Law Library

posted on : October 5, 2015 posted by : Bryan Loar 0 Comment

Reading Room Panorama — Ohio Supreme Court Library Reading Room and mural depicting the evolution of the printed book

The Supreme Court of Ohio Law Library is a gorgeous example of art deco style located in the heart of downtown Columbus, Ohio.

A veranda, reflecting pool and the world's largest gavel stainless steel sculpture are adjacent to the Ohio Supreme Court building — A veranda, reflecting pool and the world’s largest stainless steel sculptured gavel are adjacent to the Ohio Supreme Court’s building

The library is open to the public and serves Ohio citizens, judges, attorneys, legal researchers and all state agencies located in Columbus. Before entering the Supreme Court of Ohio building, visitors are treated with a reflection pool, public art and veranda for informal gatherings, lunching or solitude.

Ohio Supreme Court First Floor — A side entrance on the first floor of the Ohio Supreme Court

Inside, the Supreme Court of Ohio building exudes craftsmanship. Erected in 1931 and restored in 2004, the building is a testament to time with refined details like travertine floors, marble-lined walls and bronze bas-reliefs.

“Lady Justice Leading the People” by Ron Anderson

The library is located on the 11th floor and three floors of the penthouse. After passing the reference and circulation desk, walls are lined with large, original oil paintings from Ron Anderson’s series titled “History of the Rule of Law.”

The Supreme Court of Ohio Law Library houses nearly a half-million volumes and is one of the largest state supreme court law libraries in the nation. The library’s collection includes legal documentation throughout the history of the state and before statehood. Rare volumes include a number of English books from the 1500s as well as the 1632 “Law’s Resolutions of Women’s Rights.”

Erin Waltz and the bust of President William Howard Taft — Erin Waltz standing next to a bronze bust of President William Howard Taft.

Public Services Manager Erin Waltz collaborates with a team of nearly 10 professionals and loves combining her passion for history and law. She enjoys engaging the general public and the wide spectrum of legal professionals, from solo practitioners to supreme court judges. She has implemented process improvements to better serve library patrons and takes great pride in providing original research. Recently, she was part of a team that brought forth findings on criminal sentencing trends as well as identifying trailblazing female attorneys.

Circulation Desk — Trailblazers: Judge Florence E. Allen and Supreme Court of Ohio Law Library’s award for excellent service

The Supreme Court of Ohio Law Library is an amazing resource located within a stunning downtown Columbus edifice. We highly encourage visiting. The library and building are an inspiring mixture of magnificent beauty and knowledge.