As a specialized collection that is open to the public, the Society's library is unique in Washington. From its 20,000-item specialized collection of books and periodicals, to its databases on international law topics and Web resources, the deFord Center provides important services and resources to the local international law community and, electronically, to a global audience of international lawyers and researchers.

During ASIL's 2001-2002 renovation of Tillar House headquarters, two wings for the library were created, compact shelving was installed, and new computer workstations were added for the convenience of visiting researchers. ASIL gratefully dedicated this new space The deFord Library & Information Center in appreciation of Sarah Whitcraft deFord, a poet, English teacher, and Fulbright Scholar whose generous bequest helped launch the campaign.

At the front of the Library, The Rule of Law Reading Room is named in recognition of the Microsoft Corporation, which supported the renovation through its Rule of Law program that makes donations from the proceeds of many awards the company receives from intellectual property rights litigation.

deFord Library Hours: 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM
Tel: +1 202.939.6005
Fax: +1 202.319.1670