The Judge Kathryn J. DuFour Law Library's Special Collections Reading Room focuses on preserving rare books, valuable or unique collections, and law school archival material. The Special Collections Reading Room generally houses works printed prior to 1850. These titles require special care, need preservation work and in some instances may be considered rare. One will find among these:
The Special Collections Reading Room also includes books of more recent vintage that are of unique interest to the law school community. For example, textbooks published by our early deans, materials on the Inns of Court, the history of the Old Baily, and reminiscences of local Washington law firms are shelved here. Holding a place of special honor is a collection of mid-nineteenth century legal Americana donated by former Professor Emeritus Maxwell Bloomfield. These and other rare books can be found in the Law Library's online catalog and are identified with a location of "Special Collections."
Librarians are usually available to assist with retrieving materials from the Special Collections (Monday through Friday). Visitors should contact the Reference Department (202-319-6284) ahead of time to arrange for assistance with this collection.
Books
Professor Emeritus Stephen G. Margeton (the Director of the Judge Kathryn J. DuFour Law Library and Professor of Law from 1988 until 2013), in conjunction with current and former members of the Law School's administration and faculty, is currently researching and writing a history of the Catholic University of America Columbus School of Law. While the book is forthcoming, the following texts provide useful information related to the history of the Law School and the University.
The Catholic University of America by 
The Catholic University of America by
Timelines/Chronologies
Articles/Documents Arranged In Chronological Order
The Archives section of the Special Collections Reading Room has received a number of important donations over the years. It is the repository of materials from former faculty members, several judges, and notable alumni.
The Archives Section also serves as a historical repository for the Columbus School of Law as evidenced through the collection and retention of materials illustrating the day-to-day public life of the institution.
Librarians are usually available to assist with retrieving materials from the Special Collections 10:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. (M-Th), and 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. (Fridays). Visitors should contact the Library (202-319-5156) ahead of time to arrange for assistance with this collection.
