The Library is Changing

Starting with this school year, the library will be using more electronic resources and phasing out duplicate materials in print.   Electronic access has so many advantages (easy to search, can access any time) that keeping a print duplicate is becoming our VHS tape.

What does this really mean?

1. We will be removing materials from the library shelves.  Anything that would need updates (i.e. pocket parts) is a liability when we end an update subscription.  You might see library staff filling up big carts and taking the books away.  Don't worry, we'll try not to disturb your studying.
2. If you need to find something the library catalog is your best tool.   Westlaw is not our only resource.   If we removed a print option you should be able to find the electronic version through CLICnet.    Ask a Reference Librarian for help if you need it.
3. Some key materials, although they are available in electronic format, are still available in the library.  We want you to learn how to use digests, reporters, and other reference materials in more than one format.  At least for now, you may still end up in a job with an organization that can't afford the same comprehensive access to online legal materials.   Unfortunately not everything is online, and legal materials are rarely free.
4. The library will still be a great place to study, meet with friends and get help with assignments.

Keep an eye on the library web site for information about using our electronic resources and contact us if you need assistance.

Law School Exams

Exams are looming on the horizon. No need to panic--the law library has your back! Here are some ways we can help:

Looking at essay exams that your professors have given in the past is a great way to get prepared for the day it is just you and your Blue book (or Exam Soft)! Taking a professor’s prior exam is a great way to time yourself to be sure you don’t run short of time during the upcoming exam. Taking the time to be sure you have answered the questions completely is also a good way to review for an exam.  You can find exams online on the Hamline Law Library web site.  The law library also has print copies of exams from 1978 – 2001 in the Reference Section of the library; KF 292.H35 A24. Ask a librarian if you need help locating them.

There are plenty of books that will give you tips and pointers on how to excel at exam taking. Find them by going to the law library home page and entering the key words “law school exams.” You may limit your search to books found in the Hamline Law Library.

Don’t forget that law students can reserve study rooms—a great way to get your study group together for those review sessions! Check at the Circulation desk for sign-up sheet and eligibility requirements. Food and drink are allowed in the study rooms—if you bring in food, we ask that you be considerate of the people using the study room after you. If there is a spill, let someone on the library staff know so we can have it cleaned up. Thanks!

During the exam period, the law library provides you with extended study hours. This semester we will be open from 7:30 a.m. until 2 a.m., December 2 - 16 for your studying convenience.

Good luck with your studies. If you have any questions, feel free to ask a librarian!