About the People's Law Library of Iowa

Background

In 2016, the Iowa Supreme Court established the Iowa Access to Justice Commission in part to find ways to help Iowans overcome obstacles when accessing the Iowa justice system. From the beginning, Commissioners wanted to provide Iowans with a resource similar to what existed in a number of states: a basic, easy-to-understand website with information about the law. The gold-standard for such websites was and is The People’s Law Library of Maryland. However, such resources cannot be created or maintained for free, and the website remained a dream for the Commission, including Mandy Easter, who in addition to being actively involved with the Commission is the State Library of Iowa’s Law Librarian.

In 2021, the State Library of Iowa sought grant funding through the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) for initiatives to assist libraries with ongoing challenges in connecting with patrons and making their resources more widely accessible online. Since the idea and model existed for a long-desired People’s Law Library of Iowa, grant funding was allocated to build and launch a website by September 30, 2022.

The State Library reached out to the University of Iowa Law Library for advice and ideas, which eventually evolved into a partnership. And, over the course of less than a year, this website was created and launched! 

What the People's Law Library is (and what it isn't)

The People’s Law Library of Iowa is meant to be an easy-to-understand, basic information website about the law. The website can be a good starting point for understanding some legal issues. It connects users with cases, statutes, and administrative rules, so anyone can read the original text being summarized. It also connects users to other important sources, like the Iowa Judicial Branch or Iowa Attorney General websites.

The People’s Law Library is not legal advice, nor is it a replacement for a lawyer. The contents should be read as providing basic, introductory information only. The law can be complicated and many aspects of the law change regularly. More information about how to find a lawyer, including free and low-cost options, is available here.

Additional questions about the People's Law Library? Feel free to contact us.

Promotional Materials

Help spread the word about the People’s Law Library. Download printable PDFs of promotional items below. Additional materials are in the process of being developed; check back soon for more!