Bora Laskin Law Library

On a crisp autumn day in 1936, a brilliant young scholar named Bora Laskin graduated at the top of his class from Osgoode Hall Law School. Little did anyone know, this marked the beginning of a remarkable journey that would intertwine with the very foundations of the Bora Laskin Law Library. The library stands as a testament to Laskin’s enduring legacy. It’s a place where countless legal minds have followed in his footsteps, delving into the intricacies of law and justice. Laskin’s path wasn’t without its hurdles. Despite his academic achievements, he faced blatant antisemitism within Toronto’s legal profession. This prevented him from practicing law. Instead of being discouraged, Laskin channeled his passion into academia, returning to the University of Toronto. He later taught at Osgoode Hall. His insightful teachings and unwavering commitment to social justice earned him the affectionate nickname “Moses the Law Giver”. He significantly contributed to the reformulation of the University of Toronto as a professional law faculty. This contribution is commemorated by the Bora Laskin Law Library itself. The Bora Laskin Law Library, opened in March 1991, houses a vast collection of legal texts and periodicals. It supports the curriculum and research needs of the Faculty of Law. This includes primary legal materials from major common law countries like Canada, the United States, and the United Kingdom. The library also provides access to a wide array of electronic resources, expanding its reach far beyond its physical walls. Laskin’s influence extended beyond the classroom. He served on the Ontario Court of Appeal, championing civil liberties. He was appointed to the Supreme Court of Canada in 1970, becoming the first Jewish judge to reach this esteemed position. His career was marked by dissenting opinions. This reflected his view of law as a tool for social justice. Laskin’s legacy continues to shape legal thought in Canada. His judgments and writings remain relevant to this day. The Bora Laskin Law Library stands not just as a repository of legal knowledge. It serves as a symbol of Laskin’s unwavering dedication to justice, equality, and the transformative power of education.