Jane,
I think the expression is a conditional clause using the subjunctive mood to express irrealis. It might be close to "if the need may be," or "if the need come up." The reference to "need" without an article may suggest to some that it is actually the verb, "if it need be" like "if it needs to be." However, the omission of the "it" would then be problematic. It is likely that these expressions are strongly influencing each other in their interpretation.
Bruce
I just wrote a sentence to a parent whose child may not be able to come to our tutoring appointment: "We'll find another time if need be."
What is this construction?
Jane Saral
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