Laois Local Studies was established to collect, preserve and make available for reference, material relating to the history and heritage of County Laois. It is home to the Laois Collection, a specialist collection on the local, social, political, economic and geographic history of the county. A dedicated member of staff is available to assist and support members of the public with their research and queries. The collection and service are open to all by appointment.

Laois Local Studies is part of the Laois County Library, funded and governed by Laois County Council.

Local Studies, located on the first floor of Portlaoise Library, has a dedicated member of staff offering friendly assistance, support and advice to visiting researchers and remote users. The service and research room are open to all, from students and historians, to enthusiastic and curious members of the public. Remote users can access the service via email of telephone. The service is free, excluding charges for photocopying and printing.