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Library History

Tracing the trajectory of the Dee J. Kelly Law Library offers a fascinating look into its steadfast dedication to legal education. From humble beginnings in a former chapel to its evolution into a robust learning hub, each chapter of its history marks a step forward in its mission.

The Early Years: Humble Beginnings and New Growth

In 1989, the library found its first home within the "Mother House of the School Sisters of Notre Dame," serving the Dallas/Fort Worth School of Law. Legal volumes filled the dining room, and the chapel's Sanctorum became a digital gateway with Westlaw and Lexis. The school migrated to Grauwyler Road in Irving in 1991, carving out a space for the library on the main floor. The purchase by Texas Wesleyan University in 1992 signaled another change, rebranding the institution as the Texas Wesleyan University School of Law.

Transformation And Expansion: A Fort Worth Journey

The Dee J. Kelly Law Library stands as a beacon of legal education and research at Texas A&M University School of Law. From its inception, it has been committed to fostering a dynamic and inclusive environment that paves the way for intellectual discovery and growth. Today, the library offers an extensive collection of both traditional and contemporary legal resources, backed by exceptional services and state-of-the-art facilities. Steeped in a rich history and yet continually evolving, the Dee J. Kelly Law Library remains a cornerstone of the Law School, inspiring generations of students and faculty.

Innovation And Prestige: Joining The Texas A&M Family

The next chapters of the library’s history were characterized by innovation and recognition. The quiet room metamorphosed into a Special Collections Room in 2011, highlighting the library’s unique treasures. Then, in August 2013, the law school joined the esteemed ranks of Texas A&M University. Though situated in Fort Worth, we’re a proud part of Texas A&M University in College Station. Our journey, from a dining room and chapel to an extensive, state-of-the-art law library, attests to our unwavering commitment to nurturing legal minds.