About the Public Library Initiative

Many Trial Court services and resources are now available virtually, but not everyone knows about them or has the means to access them. The goal of the Public Library Initiative is to ensure that no one gets left behind.

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Information for public libraries

About the Initiative

Many people face certain barriers that impede their ability to visit courts in person or access court services online. Such barriers include:

  • transportation;
  • childcare;
  • stable internet access and/or computer access; and
  • limited training or experience in using technology platforms (such as Zoom).

The goal of the Initiative is to remove as many of these barriers as possible. We aim to achieve this by helping set up easy access to virtual court services at partner public library locations around Massachusetts.

What does it mean to be a partner library? 

Partner libraries are public libraries in Massachusetts that are committed to:

  • learning about the virtual services and resources that are available to the public through the Trial Court, and
  • setting up a space within their library that allows patrons to be able to easily access these virtual court services.

Join our growing list of partner libraries, which can be found throughout Massachusetts!

Interested in becoming a partner library? Need more information?

If you are interested in learning more about the Initiative or would like express interest in becoming a partner library, email us at publiclibraryproject@jud.state.ma.us.

Additional information can be found on our Quick Reference Guide for Partner Libraries page.

Information for court users and library patrons

Are you interested in accessing virtual Trial Court services at a local library? 

Please check our list of partner libraries to find a location nearest to you. If you do not find a convenient location on our list, you may still be able to use the computers and internet at your local library to connect with Trial Court resources and services. Call your local library to learn more about the resources that may be available to you.

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