The professional home for legal information professionals across Northern California — connecting law librarians in courts, firms, universities, and beyond since 1980.
NOCALL members work across the Bay Area and surrounding region — from federal courts and law schools to county libraries, corporate legal departments, and solo practices. Many have served as officers and board members of the national American Association of Law Libraries (AALL).
Teaching future lawyers
Academic law librarians teach legal research to law students and LLM candidates — building the research skills lawyers rely on throughout their careers.
Supporting the bench
Court law librarians assist judges and clerks with research, manage collections, and ensure access to legal materials for pro se litigants.
Powering legal strategy
Law firm librarians deliver critical research under tight deadlines, manage knowledge resources, and evaluate emerging technologies including AI research tools.
“Law librarians sit at the intersection of law, technology, and access to justice.”
Law librarians often hold both a JD and a master’s in library science (MLIS) — combining deep legal knowledge with expertise in information systems, research methodology, and technology evaluation. They help attorneys win cases, professors teach effectively, and aid members of the public navigate complex legal systems.
A real professional community
Connect with colleagues across every segment of the profession — and make connections that last a career.
Workshops & Spring Institute
Year-round programs covering legal research, library management, emerging tech, and substantive law topics.
Jobs, mentorship & grants
Access job listings, grant funding for educational events, and mentorship from experienced practitioners.
Grow in a supportive space
Serve on committees, run for office, and develop leadership skills in a welcoming, collegial environment.
Curious about a career in law librarianship?
Talk to someone who’s been there. Reach out to our Academic Relations Committee at academicrelations@nocall.org — whether you’re exploring the field or looking for a mentor as a newer professional.
NOCALL was established in 1980 as a recognized chapter of the American Association of Law Libraries. For 45 years, we have promoted law librarianship and legal information services, developed the usefulness of law libraries, and fostered cooperation and knowledge-sharing across Northern California. For more information, see the NOCALL Bylaws.
Northern California Association of Law Libraries · 268 Bush Street #3736 · San Francisco, CA 94104 · webmaster@nocall.org