Born in Liverpool, Yates established a successful career as a merchant. His professional success afforded him the means and opportunity to pursue extensive intellectual interests. He became a prominent figure in Liverpool's literary and scientific circles, dedicating much of his life to historical research and writing.
Yates was an active member of several learned societies. He held a significant role in the Literary and Philosophical Society of Liverpool, where he served as president multiple times. His scholarly reputation extended nationally, leading to his election as a Fellow of the Society of Antiquaries and a Fellow of the Royal Society of Literature. These affiliations highlight his respected standing among his contemporaries in the fields of history and literature.
His published works reflect a wide range of interests. Notable among his writings were An Account of the Ancient Lilleys of England and various essays, including On the Use of the Term "Charta" and The Results of an Inquiry into the Status of the Indians of British America. The latter is indicative of his profound interest in American history, a field in which he amassed one of the most comprehensive private libraries of his era, containing numerous rare books and manuscripts.
Joseph Brooks Yates is remembered for his meticulous scholarship and his significant contributions to the intellectual life of 19th-century Liverpool. His writings and extensive library enriched the historical understanding of both his local region and the broader history of the Americas, establishing him as an influential antiquary and author.