Virtual Library Cat's Eye View

Are you ready for a law e-textbook

2012-01-30T13:52:00.004-05:00

It seems that the time for law textbooks to move to a digital format may have arrived. This article from Law Technology News, "Apple, Publishers, Open-Source Dictate Law School Text Book Evolution" is a good prognosis.

Ernster, the Virtual Library Cat

Apps for Lawyers

2012-01-29T18:46:00.000-05:00

With the advent of smartphones many of us use various apps to help us in our everyday lives. In the past few years, many legal vendors have introduced apps for various lawyer functions. Legal Technology News recently published a guide entitled "Librarian-Recommended Apps for Lawyers." This handy guide categorizes the apps by purpose and provides summaries on what you want to accomplish with the app, it's features and more. Some highlighted apps include Evernote, FastCase, Lexis Case Pull, GoodReader and more. Click here to access the full guide of recommended apps for lawyers.

Ernster, the Virtual Library Cat

Better than Lexis and Westlaw???

2012-01-27T12:15:00.002-05:00

There is much more out there than Lexis and Westlaw (and Google) for your research. Many attorneys and scholars use specialized topical databases to target their area of interest. How can you do the same? Go to the Library's Online Resources page, choose your topic of interest and see what we have available. You will find databases specializing in Tax, Health, Commercial and Corporate and many other topics.

And, of course, if you are not sure where to go, ask your favorite Reference Librarian!

Ernster, the Virtual Library Cat

Megaupload Meets Godzilla?

2012-01-26T09:17:00.002-05:00

Read Thomson Reuters legal columnist AlisonFrankel’s interesting take on the recent accusations of racketeering andcriminal copyright infringement against the file sharing site Megaupload here.

Ernster, the Virtual Library Cat

New Google Privacy Policy

2012-01-25T20:56:00.000-05:00

Yesterday Google announced on the Official Google Blog and via email notices that it was changing its privacy policies, effective March 1, 2012. One general privacy policy covering most of its products will replace the more than 70 privacy documents existing today.

A main objective behind the new policy, as stated in the announcement, will be to "[make] clear that, if you're signed in", Google "may combine information you've provided from one service with information from other services." In other words, Google will combine information gathered from different products your may have used (for example, Gmail, Google Docs, Google+ posts, shared photos, and calendars) and "treat you as a single user across all our products." This permits Google to offer its new feature, "Search Plus Your World," described in a previous post. Google is also simplifying matters by revising its Terms of Service, also posted now but effective March 1.

Is this just simplification, just service, or just scary? The media and the lawmakers are already weighing in on that question, as explained here by Mark Hachman of PCMag.com. Whatever your personal take on the new Google policies and features may be, it's good to be informed.

Ernster, the Virtual Library Cat

Contract Law Karaoke

2012-01-24T13:56:00.000-05:00

Starting with Chicken in a Contract (Frigaliment Importing Co v BNS International Sales), tap your foot and listen to more songs from classic cases of first-year contract law by visiting R.B. Craswell's Contract Songs" Hat tip to Law Librarian Blog.
Ernster, the Virtual Library Cat

World Justice Project: Rule of Law Index

2012-01-23T13:48:00.002-05:00

New link added to our online resources! The Rule of Law Index is a new quantitative assessment tool designed by The World Justice Project to offer a detailed and comprehensive picture of the extent to which countries adhere to the rule of law in practice. The index provides detailed information and original data on nine dimensions of the rule of law:

Limited Government Powers
Absence of Corruption
Order and Security
Fundamental Rights
Open Government
Effective Regulatory Enforcement
Access to Civil Justice
Effective Criminal Justice
Informal Justice

It may be found on the law library's website under "online resources" - "Foreign/Comparative Law".

Ernster, the Virtual Library Cat

ABA Journal Blawg 100

2012-01-22T13:30:00.000-05:00

Blogs are a great tool to keep up-to-date on the latest legal news and events. Recently, the ABA Journal published an article highlighting 100 blogs that every lawyer should read (or be familiar with) to keep apprise on the latest legal information. The journal compiled the list of the top 100 law blogs in twelve categories using nominations from fellow attorneys. Click here for the entire list.

Ernster, the Virtual Library Cat

Is your JD a good investment?

2012-01-20T15:22:00.002-05:00

That very question was asked late last year in TaxProf blog . In the post there is some serious number crunching to help you answer that question. Definitely worth a read.

TaxProf blog is one of my favorite sources for discussion not only relating to taxes, but about law schools and legal education.

Ernster, the Virtual Library Cat

Freedom of Information Act

2012-01-19T12:52:00.001-05:00

A brief reminder on a subject of perennialinterest: There is an extensive guide to the Freedom ofInformation Act ("FOIA") available at The George WashingtonUniversity's National SecurityArchive's Web page. The page contains the text of FOIA, andseveral guides that describe aspects of FOIA, including an explanation of howFOIA requests work

Ernster, the Virtual Library Cat

Maples v. Thomas: A Cautionary Tale

2012-01-18T21:30:00.000-05:00

Today the United States Supreme court decided a case that is both high profile and right on point for aspiring law students, at the intersection of constitutional law and professional responsibility. Maples, an Alabama death row inmate challenging his murder convictions on constitutional grounds (ineffective assistance of counsel) , was represented pro bono at the state level by two lawyers from a prominent New York Law firm. When the lawyers left that firm without notifying the Alabama court, the notice of the court's decision against their client ended up in the New York firm's mail room, where it was marked "Return to Sender." When it was returned, the Alabama court took no action. Neither did the client's local Alabama attorney, so the filing date for a Notice of Appeal just passed by. After the attorneys and the courts shared the blame in the oral arguments presented to the Supreme Court justices, the often divided Court decided 7-2 that Maples had suffered "abandonment" by his attorneys and that his procedural default must be excused. The opinion, which makes for good reading, is found here. The briefs and case analysis can be found at SCOTUSblog.

Ernster, the Virtual Library Cat

Dot-Com, Dot-Org, Dot-?: ICANN Launches New gTLD Program

2012-01-17T22:16:00.004-05:00

Move over .com, .gov, and .org top-level internet name space is about to get a bit more crowded. The Internet Corporation for Assigned Numbers and Names (ICANN), the organization that oversees Internet domain names just rolled out a new program that will likely dramatically increase the number and kinds of domain names.

The new program allows organizations to apply for a custom top-level domain (gTLD), for a fee of $185,000. Currently, there are about 22 generic gTLDs, but an ICANN board resolution allows as many as 1,000 gTLDs per year that can be added to the Internet and there are many companies that are interested. It has been reported that “ICANN expects that its plan will lead to the creation of several hundred new gTLDs, such as .canon, which Canon, the Japanese electronics company, has said it is seeking to register. Hitachi is another company that has said it will apply for its own gTLD. “

"Rod Beckstrom, president and CEO of ICANN, in a statement characterized the decision as a way to "unleash the global human imagination" and expressed the hope that "this allows the domain name system to better serve all of mankind." However, in a recent interview, Dan Jaffe of the Association of National Advertisers warned “that this basically unlimited increase in top-level domains is going to impose enormous costs on business, costs that will basically mean that people will be buying their own trademarks to protect them against others who may harm them and it's going to be a serious problem for consumers. . . . This is going to create enormous problems for those who try to monitor the Internet against Internet crime.”

Ernster, the Virtual Library Cat

MLK Day

2012-01-13T10:54:00.001-05:00

The Library will be open on Martin Luther King Day from 10am - 6pm. There will be a Reference Librarian available during this time. Law students will have swipe card access outside of these times.

Ernster, the Virtual Library Cat

Following The U.S. Supreme Court During The Current Term

2012-01-12T12:59:00.000-05:00

A reminder-- as we noted in anearlier post, with the U.S. Supreme Court’s currentsession in full swing, and with the issuance of decisions at a dizzying rate,remember to follow the action using two “old favorites”: The Supreme Court Web siteand SCOTUSblog.

Ernster, the Virtual Library Cat

Annual Law Student Survey Released

2012-01-11T20:01:00.000-05:00

The results of the 2011 Law School Survey of Student Engagement are out. This annual survey is designed to measure how law students throughout the country study, experience growth, communicate with faculty, and rate the quality of their law school experience. The LSSSE was completed last year by more than 33,000 students at 95 schools in the United States and Canada. What do current law students really think about law school? Would they enroll in the same school again? Is law school helping them develop job-related skills? Take a look at the survey results here.

Ernster, the Virtual Library Cat

Google Launches Search Plus Your World

2012-01-10T20:32:00.001-05:00

Google launched a new update today. The Google update, known as “Search Plus Your World,” integrates Google+ pages that have been made public in with regular search results on Google. Click here to read more about Search Plus.

Ernster, the Virtual Library Cat

Student Resources at the Deane Law Library

2012-01-09T15:15:00.001-05:00

As you prepare for a new semester take a moment to review Student Resources at the Deane Law Library. We want you to be successful and we are here to assist you as we may in your endeavors. We have services and resources that you may not know about. So look at our website and then stop and talk with us.

Ernster, the Virtual Library Cat

2012 Technologies for Health

2012-01-08T11:32:00.000-05:00

The Washington Post recently published an article highlighting 2012 technologies for health. Generally, we see technologies for entertainment and information but this article provides a twist by highlighting health. This is especially useful as many of us make the same New Year resolution to lose weight and get healthy. The article discusses various technologies including health and fitness apps, self-tracking for blood sugar or blood pressure, devices that help increase activity and more. Click here to read the entire article.

Ernster, the Virtual Library Cat

Going Mobile

2012-01-06T16:27:00.000-05:00

Did you know you can now search Lexis and Westlaw from your phone/iPad?

If you are lucky enough to have an iPad, here is the WestlawNext app.

For Lexis Advance (the new Lexis platform, more on this in future posts), here is the Lexis Advance app for iPhones and iPads.

Android and other phone users, hang in there. I suspect your app will be available soon.

Ernster, the Virtual Library Cat

An Interesting January “Holiday”

2012-01-05T09:19:00.004-05:00

Nowthat some of us are back to school and work, let us look at ways in whichothers conclude the Winter holidays. According to Gone-ta-Pott.com, one suchtransitional day is Plough Sunday/Monday:

"The day traditionally saw the resumptionof work after the Christmas period. In some areas, particularly in northernEngland and East Anglia, a plough was hauled from house to house in aprocession, collecting money. They were often accompanied by musicians, an oldwoman or a boy dressed as an old woman, called the ‘Bessy’, and a man in therole of the ‘fool’. 'Plough Pudding' is a boiled suet pudding, containingmeat and onions, it is from Norfolk and is eaten on Plough Monday."

Ernster, the Virtual Library Cat

New, Free E-Books from CALI

2012-01-04T17:06:00.000-05:00

Just in time for Spring Semester, the folks at CALI (Center for Computer-Assisted Legal Instruction) have announced some new free e-texts to save you some money. In addition to the Restyled Federal Rules of Evidence (subject of our December 6 post), CALI has added other new titles to its eLangdell collection of digital books for your laptop and a variety of mobile devices, including Kindle. Among the recently released titles for download are books for securities law and regulation, bankruptcy, and civil procedure, as well as a recently revised version of Peter Martin's Introduction to Basic Legal Citation. Keep your eye on CALI's eLangdell web site for more titles to come.

Ernster, the Virtual Library Cat

January Intersession Hours

2012-01-03T09:00:00.000-05:00

INTERSESSION SCHEDULE: Tuesday, January 3 - Sunday, January 8
Monday - Thursday	8 AM - 6 PM
Friday	8 AM - 6 PM
Saturday	10 AM - 6 PM
Sunday	10 AM - 6 PM

Ernster, the Virtual Library Cat

Five Things You Think Work, But Actually Don’t

2011-12-22T09:24:00.000-05:00

Now that final examinations are over, perhaps it’s time to look at some of the interesting minutiae of everyday life outside the legal sphere. For instance, there are many things we encounter in our daily round that we assume (or are led to believe) are functional, but in fact are not. For an interesting look at five common things we think work, but don’t, click here.

Ernster, the Virtual Library Cat

Winter Solstice Time

2011-12-21T16:48:00.000-05:00

While most of you are celebrating the end of exams and the change of semesters, it's also time for a change of seasons, brought to us by astronomical science, not the academic calendar. The winter solstice takes place at 12:30 a.m., EST, December 22, 2011, making tonight the longest night of the year and tomorrow the shortest day. Then every day gets (literally) brighter as winter unfolds. For a quick and very enjoyable review of how the winter solstice comes about, try this short YouTube video set to music.

Ernster, the Virtual Library Cat

Online Resources: Industrial & Labor Relations Review

2011-12-20T09:00:00.000-05:00

If you are looking for a journal that discusses work and employment issues, try the Industrial & Labor Relations Review. Relevant topics in this publication include the organization of work, the nature of employment contracts, human resource management, employment relations, conflict management and dispute resolution, labor market dynamics and policies, labor and employment law, and employee attitudes and behaviors at work.

This site contains the full text of articles and book reviews dating from April 2003 (Vol. 56, No. 3). You can view and download recent and current articles, download (a) any book review archived and (b) any archived article that is at least 18 months old.

To access Industrial & Labor Relations Review:

Go to the Library's home page, click "Online Resources"
Click the "Labor and Employment Law" link
Scroll down to "Industrial & Labor Relations Review"

Ernster, the Virtual Library Cat

Fun for today

2011-12-19T11:16:00.003-05:00

In keeping with the holiday season, Google created the "Let It Snow" Easter Egg. Just type in - let it snow - in the search box and Google watch the snow flakes fall. It will turn into a white out and you can use your cursor to clear your screen or even better to draw pictures. Not to worry, a defrost button appears when the snow fall is heaviest.

Have fun!
Ernster, the Virtual Library Cat

Recap of 2011 Legal Technology

2011-12-18T14:19:00.000-05:00

Legal technology tools have become increasingly popular in the past year and will continue to do so in the future. Although, legal technologies has made the lives of lawyers much easier it has also raised many issues and concerns from privacy, ethics and professional responsibility. Nonetheless, lawyers should be aware of emerging technologies as well as its pros and cons. As such, LTN has created a year of opinions on legal technology. This handy list compiles many articles from the last year that are helpful for attorneys using or thinking about using top tech trends, marketing tools,devices and more . Click here to access the full article.

Ernster, the Virtual Library Cat

Time for a Break!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

2011-12-16T10:32:00.000-05:00

You made it !!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Especially to you first years, take a well earned break. I certainly need one - I have some serious napping to catch up on. (I am a cat, I ALWAYS have serious napping to catch up on).

For those of you still awake, the Library will be open on a more limited schedule. Please remember, starting on Saturday 12/17, outside of these times, you will not be able to visit the Library since we will be closed with no swipe card access.

INTERSESSIONSCHEDULE - Saturday, December 17BThursday,December 22**

**CLOSED- NO SWIPE CARD ACCESS outside ofthese times

Saturday 10:00A.M. ‑ 6:00 P.M.

Sunday Noon - 8:00 P.M.

Monday- Thursday 8:00A.M - 5:00 P.M.

WINTERBREAK - Friday, December 23–Monday,January 2, 2012**

LIBRARY CLOSED - **NO SWIPE CARD ACCESS

Ernster, the Virtual Library Cat

Political Calculations

2011-12-15T13:09:00.000-05:00

Political Calculations is a different sort of blog. Rather than delivering comments on current events, Political Calculations offers tools that perform computations related to topics that are frequently in the news. Some examples include reckoning the odds of recession and average lifetime earnings trajectories by education.

Ernster, the Virtual Library Cat

Nationwide Cell Phone Driving Ban Recommended

2011-12-14T22:22:00.004-05:00

Exams are almost over, and it will be time to drive away for holidays and a well-deserved break. The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) voted unanimously this week to recommend a nationwide ban on driving while using cell phones and other personal electronic devices. Their recommendation is for all 50 states and the District Of Columbia to pass laws prohibiting use of both hand-held and hands-free personal electronic devices for non-emergency use. While the NTSB has no power to implement such a ban, federal and state regulators and legislatures can act to carry out the recommendation. Many states have texting and cell phone use restrictions in place, and a recent rule bans the use of hand-held cell phones by interstate bus and truck drivers. A current table and maps of cell phone and texting laws across the country are provided by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety.
Ernster, the Virtual Library Cat

The United Nations Office on Drugs and Crimes (UNODC)

2011-12-13T20:08:00.000-05:00

The United Nations Office on Drugs and Crimes (UNODC) is an agency of the United Nations established to assist Member States with issues concerning illicit drugs and international crime. UNODC’s online legislation legal library provides full text of drug control laws and regulations adopted by countries in support of international drug control treaties. It includes legislation adopted since 1948.
Ernster, the Virtual Library Cat

Google undocumented search operators

2011-12-12T13:50:00.002-05:00

Well, it appears that some of the undocumented Google search operators are dated and may no longer work as they did in 2010. For updated information check out, Reference: Advanced operators for Web Search. Changes keep us on our toes.
Ernster, the Virtual Library Cat

HeinOnline Session Laws Quick Locator Enhancement

2011-12-11T18:19:00.002-05:00

The HeinOnline Session Laws Library is a great source for PDF's of the official bound session laws of all 50 states, Puerto Rico, Virgin Islands and more. In order to make this vast amount of materials more accessible, HeinOnline has recently added the sessions law enhancement. This enhancement allows the user to now select a state, chapter number, enter a year or page number and quickly jump to the page they are looking for. This enhancement is also integrated at the individual state browsing level. Click here to learn more about this new enhancement.
Ernster, the Virtual Library Cat

Meow to Text

2011-12-09T12:08:00.003-05:00

So, you know that I am a fan of Google. I just discovered the niftiest new tool for Google searching. You can speak (or meow, in my case) your search just by pressing or clicking on the little microphone icon in the search box. For iPhone users, download and use the free Google search app for your searching to use this feature.

In no time I found the ingredients I needed for my recipe while I was in the supermarket without having to type in anything. Typing with my paws can get tiresome.

Ernster, the Virtual Library Cat

New York Legal Research Library

2011-12-08T12:59:00.000-05:00

When you are researching New York law, don’t forget about a valuable resource that collects a good deal of information in one place: HeinOnline’s New York Research Library. The Library includes journals, statutes, reports, session laws, as well as a great deal of historical material, and is accessible via our online databases page.

Ernster, the Virtual Library Cat

Congress Debates Cameras in the Court

2011-12-07T20:48:00.009-05:00

An earlier post this week focused on the pros and cons of whether U.S. Supreme Court oral arguments should be televised. Now Congress has gotten into the act, although it is unclear if Congress has the authority to require the Court to permit televised proceedings. The Senate introduced a bill on Monday that would permit televised coverage of all open proceedings, unless the Court determined that this would violate the "due process" rights of at least one party to the case. Yesterday, the Senate Judiciary Committee held a hearing to debate the issue and the validity of such a bill. JURIST has a good brief summary of the bill and the hearing.
Ernster, the Virtual Library Cat

Restyled Federal Rules of Evidence

2011-12-06T19:25:00.003-05:00

The Restyled Federal Rules of Evidence became effective on December 1, 2011. The Law Librarian's Blog offers commentary about the restyled FRE and two free and reliable e-text alternatives from Federal Evidence Review and Cornell LII-CALI.

Read about the restyled FRE here.

Read about e-text alternatives from Federal Evidence Review and Cornell LII-CALI here.

Ernster, the Virtual Library Cat

Google Guide

2011-12-05T13:57:00.002-05:00

So you are familiar with Google's Advanced Search and are under the impression that this is the most sophisticated searching that can be done on Google. Turns out this is not the case and the Google Guide lists search operators beyond those offered by Google. This site is not affiliated with Google.

One of the interesting features is the "around(n)" term which functions as a proximity connector. Ex. doctor AROUND(5) malpractice returns pages where the two terms are in very close proximity to each other.

As an undocumented features, Google may always eliminate these options but in the meantime they are useful to know.

Hat Tip to Law Librarian blog.

Ernster, the Virtual Library Cat

Cameras in the Supreme Court

2011-12-04T17:44:00.004-05:00

The New York Times recently published an article on cameras in the Supreme Court. Currently, cameras are not allowed in the Supreme Court. However, C-Span has made a recent request to televise five and a half hours of oral arguments scheduled by the Court to hear the constitutional challenge to President Obama's health care law. The article presents the arguments for and against cameras in the Court as well as thoughts of some of the Supreme Court justices. Read the full article here.
Ernster, the Virtual Library Cat

Facebook And FTC Settle Privacy Dispute

2011-12-01T14:00:00.000-05:00

The FTC’s complaint filed against Facebook has been much in the news of late. The complaint alleged that privacy settings on the site failed to apply to third-party sites and applications. The suit has now been settled. Read all about the settlement here.

Ernster, the Virtual Library Cat

Lady Justice: Sign of the Law

2011-11-30T20:36:00.005-05:00

Is justice impartial, or just foolishly blind? Take a study break with an online exhibit and put the law into perspective. "The Remarkable Run of a Political Icon: Justice as a Sign of the Law" features thirteen pages of images from the 500-year history of an iconic symbol--a woman, draped and holding scales. The exhibit was created by the Lillian Goldman Law Library at Yale University using volumes from its Rare Book Collection to illustrate the changing image of Justice and what it represented, from its roots in the 15th century through the next 300 years. Enjoy.
Ernster, the Virtual Library Cat

Helpful Tips During Exam Period

2011-11-29T20:41:00.001-05:00

Knowing where to find helpful study guides, the archived exam, and study room policies may prove helpful when preparing for final exams.

Click here to access helpful study guides. Most current study guides are located in our Reserve collection and can be charged out for three hour periods.

To access the Exam Archive:

Go to Hofstra Law School Library home page http://law.hofstra.edu/Library .
In the middle column under "Resources," click “Exam Archive.”
You will be prompted to log in to the Hofstra University Portal using your Novell Username and Password.
Click on “OK”
Click the professor’s folder to access the exams.

Library Study Rooms:

Click here to access the Library’s study room policy.

Ernster, the Virtual Library Cat

National Security Archvie at George Washington University

2011-11-28T18:25:00.002-05:00

The National Security Archive is an independent non-governmental research institute and library located at The George Washington University, the Archive collects and publishes declassified documents obtained through the Freedom of Information Act. The Archive also serves as a repository of government records on a wide range of topics pertaining to the national security, foreign, intelligence, and economic policies of the United States. The Archive won the 1999 George Polk Award, one of U.S. journalism's most prestigious prizes, for--in the words of the citation--"piercing the self-serving veils of government secrecy, guiding journalists in the search for the truth and informing us all."

The Archive obtains its materials through a variety of methods, including the Freedom of Information act, Mandatory Declassification Review, presidential paper collections, congressional records, and court testimony. Archive staff members systematically track U.S. government agencies and federal records repositories for documents that either have never been released before, or that help to shed light on the decision-making process of the U.S. government and provide the historical context underlying those decisions.

(Description from the "About" section of the site)
Ernster, the Virtual Library Cat

Twitter and Lawyers

2011-11-27T13:43:00.002-05:00

Social media tools have become increasingly popular in the past few years. Twitter has mainly become a favorite for many and has gained some importance in the legal field as well. Many issues and concerns have been raised in the past year on the use of Twitter by lawyers and the courts. As such, the Legal Skills Prof Blog has created a Twitter reading list for lawyers. This handy list compiles many articles helpful for attorneys using or thinking about using Twitter in their practice and the possible issues that can arise in this area. The list also provides useful Twitter resources and tools. Click here to access the Twitter reading list for lawyers.
Ernster, the Virtual Library Cat

Legally Thanksgiving

2011-11-23T12:52:00.011-05:00

What's controversial about Thanksgiving? Well, the date used to be. The timing of this celebration as a legal holiday under the U.S. Constitution was anything but consistent between George Washington, who proclaimed the first one, and December 1941, when Congress finally settled on the fourth Thursday in November as the federal holiday. The National Archives covers the twists and turns of legal Thanksgiving history, with some photos and original documents available here.
Ernster, the Virtual Library Cat

Library Access During Thanksgiving Holiday - Reminder

2011-11-22T19:47:00.002-05:00

Wednesday, November 23: The library will close at 7:30.

Thursday, November 24: Closed -- No access

Friday, November 25: Closed -- No access

Saturday, November 26: There will be SWIPE CARD ACCESS 8A.M.-10A.M.

Regular Hours resume Nov. 26, 10A.M.

Happy Thanksgiving!
Ernster, the Virtual Library Cat

HeinOnline App User’s Guide

2011-11-20T13:28:00.002-05:00

If you have taken advantage of the free HeinOnline app and have some questions about it or want to learn more then you will find their recently published "App User Guide" very helpful. The guide provides quick information on how to access content by citation, browse by volume, navigate a volume with the electronic table of contents, how to use full advanced searching techniques and more. To access the guide click here and to learn how to access the app from your device click here.
Ernster, the Virtual Library Cat

Thanksgiving Week Hours

2011-11-18T10:30:00.002-05:00

It is almost time to be thankful for our good fortune and abundance - not to mention eat a bird! (Apologies to vegetarians and ornithologists, but I AM A CAT, after all.)

So, to accomplish all of the above, the Reference Librarians and the Library will have an abbreviated schedule next week as follows:

Reference Desk Hours:
Mon., Nov 21 - 9am - 5pm
Tues. Nov. 22 - 9am - 9pm
Wed. Nov. 23 - 9am - 5pm**
Thurs. Nov. 24 - LIBRARY CLOSED**
Fri. Nov. 25 - LIBRARY CLOSED**
Sat. Nov. 26 - No Reference Librarian
Sun. Nov. 27 - 12pm - 8pm

**LIBRARY CLOSED-NO SWIPE CARD ACCESS - Wed., Nov. 23, 7:30pm P.M. – Sat., Nov. 26, 8:00 A.M.

There will be SWIPE CARD ACCESS Saturday, Nov. 26, 8A.M.-10A.M.

Regular Hours resume Nov. 26, 10A.M.

Have a Happy Turkey Day!

Ernster, the Virtual Library Cat

Municipal Codes: Municode Library

2011-11-17T13:10:00.000-05:00

Municode Library is an alternative source for finding municipal codes and ordinances online. Just click the state on the map, and then the link to the municipal code you are seeking.

New York offerings on Municode are a little thin, but the site remains a worthwhile alternative source for municipal codes and local law.

Ernster, the Virtual Library Cat

Daily Chart

2011-11-16T20:55:00.009-05:00

While prowling the Web I came across a blog that is both fun and enlightening while providing key facts and statistics that illustrate current world issues. The Economist blog, Daily Chart, is true to its name and provides a graph or chart to illustrate the topic of the day. It also cites the sources behind the graphics, many of which are useful for law student seminar papers. Recent posts have offered a graphical view of subjects as diverse as the distribution of corporate wealth, world population growth, trends in U.S. city murder rates, and the world's leaning buildings. Of course, a few minutes with Daily Chart also makes a great study break.

Ernster, the Virtual Library Cat

Civil war: a Marvel Comics event

2011-11-15T19:49:00.000-05:00

Exam period is near. Take a study break to consider the legal issues that arise in Marvel Universe when Capital Hill proposes that all costumed heroes unmask themselves before the government! In Civil war: a Marvel Comics event, superheroes clash with one other as they struggle towards a decision that will change the Marvel Universe ... forever!

Civil war is located in the library's reserve collection, ask for it at the the circulation desk.

Ernster, the Virtual Library Cat

Message from Hofstra Law IT

2011-11-14T14:16:00.002-05:00

This is the text of an email sent from Dean Moore earlier today:

Attention All Students;

It has come to our attention that some of you may not know how to access your class podcasts. This week, we will be promoting our iTunesU podcast site. Today, Monday November 14 and Wednesday, November 16 from 12:00 to 2:00 PM, we will have a table in the Student Lounge showing students how to access the Law School’s iTunesU podcast site.

We will also have a display in the Law Library, featuring our iTunesU site complete with a QR code that you can scan. It will take you to our iTunesU instructions page. We also have the iTunesU site advertisement on the display screens throughout the Law School.

Finally, attached are easy to follow instructions on how to access your class podcasts. If you have any questions about accessing podcasts, please stop by our Podcast table on the aforementioned days and times. You can also contact us at lawhelp@hofstra.edu or visit our Information Systems Help Desk located in Room 221 of the Law School.

Dean Moore

Please look for your email for the attached instructions on how to access your class podcasts.

Ernster, the Virtual Library Cat

Online Resources: BNA Employment Discrimination Report

2011-11-13T14:38:00.003-05:00

If you are looking for a source that reviews legislative, regulatory, and judicial developments in key areas of equal employment opportunity from across the country, try Employment Discrimination Report (BNA).

The Report provides cases from all courts, summaries of briefs filed by the EEOC, up-to-date coverage of news and legal developments, reports from experts in various areas, and more.

To access the Employment Discrimination Report:

Go to the Library's home page, click "Online Resources"
Click the "Labor and Employment Law" link
Scroll down to "Employment Discrimination Report (BNA)"

Ernster, the Virtual Library Cat

Legal Research App

2011-11-11T13:18:00.003-05:00

Continuing with my explorations of HeinOnline, you can take advantage of the advantage of the One-Box Search feature and other HeinOnline resources on you iPhone or iPad using the relatively new (and free) app.

To access HeinOnline from your device you either must get the username and password from the Reference Desk librarian or you can access HeinOnline while on campus through a wireless connection. If you access via wireless on campus (authenticate) , you will be able to access HeinOnline on your device from anywhere for 30 days. After 30 days, you must return to campus authenticate your app again.

Ernster, the Virtual Library Cat

Mississippi Voters Reject “Personhood” Amendment

2011-11-10T12:47:00.000-05:00

Mississippi voters recently rejected a ballot measure that would have amended the state constitution to define the word person or persons to include "every human being from the moment of fertilization, cloning, or the functional equivalent thereof." Read more here.

Ernster, the Virtual Library Cat

GPS Surveillance Case Argued Yesterday

2011-11-09T20:39:00.007-05:00

One of the most closely watched cases of this Supreme Court term, for both its Constitutional and criminal law implications, was argued yesterday before the nine Justices. The case of United States v. Jones presents a simple but profoundly important question related to individual privacy, Fourth Amendment, and new technology: Does the installation of a tracking device on a vehicle by police, without either a warrant or the suspect's consent, violate a suspect's Constitutional rights? The attorneys sparred about the Orwellian implications (or not) of permitting this practice with the Justices. SCOTUSblog has a recap of the argument. The official transcript at the Supreme Court web site also makes for interesting reading.
Ernster, the Virtual Library Cat

Research Resources: Justis

2011-11-08T20:31:00.003-05:00

Justis is a full text online legal library of UK, Irish and EU case law dating back to 1163 and legislation from 1235.

Justis offers access to a wide variety of authoritative legal sources. The Justis legal library provides up-to-date case law, legislation, and EU information. Case law is available as a printable PDF, replicating the pagination of the hard copies exactly.

To access Justis:

Go to the Library's home page, click "Online Resources"
Then, click on the "International Organizations" link
Scroll down, click the "Justis" link

Ernster, the Virtual Library Cat

New HeinOnline One-Box Search Feature

2011-11-06T14:21:00.003-05:00

HeinOnline has recently introduced a new enhancement called the One-Box Search option. It appears on the HeinOnline welcome page and was created to begin research when users are not sure which collection would be the correct option to start researching in. The One-Box search allows users to search across all of the subscribed libraries at the same time and also acts as an advanced search box. Click here to access the advanced search guidelines brochure and click here to begin using this feature.
Ernster, the Virtual Library Cat

Law Student 24/7 Swipe Card Access HAS CHANGED

2011-11-04T09:16:00.003-04:00

You will now use our main library doors to gain access to the library at all times.

This means to enter the Library after hours, law students MUST USE THE LIBRARY FRONT DOORS ONLY .

The door by the Office of Academic Records will no longer work.

Ernster, the Virtual Library Cat

GAO Reports

2011-11-02T19:37:00.005-04:00

If you are looking for reliable sources for your research papers, don't overlook GAO reports. The U.S. Government Accountability Office (GAO) is an independent, nonpartisan agency that works for Congress, investigating how the federal government spends its money and working to increase government performance and accountability. The GAO issues about 800 reports each year, either at the request of Congress or as required by federal laws. In the past month alone, the GAO released law-related reports on topics ranging from consumer product safety and health care pricing to the Federal Reserve System's assistance to AIG (American International Group, Inc.) during the recent financial crisis. Available in PDF on the agency's web site, GAO reports are searchable by keyword or report number, and can be browsed under the "Reports and Testimonies" tab by topic and date.

Ernster, the Virtual Library Cat

Hein Online: A Research Tip

2011-10-31T10:07:00.002-04:00

One can search Hein Online, but as the search functions are different from Google, Lexis and Westlaw one has to learn how to construct search queries for this database. It is not difficult, just different.

Tip: Use a tilde ~ plus a number as a proximity connector. Example, (criminal juvenile justice)~15 means that the words within the parenthesis - "criminal" "juvenile" and "justice" - are to be within 15 words of each other.

If the search is run in the entire database, methods to filter the search results will be to the left of the results list.

Ernster, the Virtual Library Cat

Federal Court Opinions on FDSYS

2011-10-30T19:43:00.003-04:00

FDsys is the upgraded free online access system from the U.S. Government Printing Office that aims to provide official federal government publications. Many lawyers and law students use FDsys to access the U.S. Code, CFR and Federal Register. Recently, FDsys has added federal court opinions to its system in a pilot program. Currently FDsys provides PDFs of federal decisions for three courts from 2004 to the present (the number of courts will be expanding). The full text of the cases can be searched by party name, court name, case number, nature of suit and other search options. Read the full announcement here and access the decisions here.
Ernster, the Virtual Library Cat

Voting for Judges

2011-10-28T09:49:00.004-04:00

Here in New York we elect our Judges. You understand the critical role judges play in our legal system, having read dozens of cases (or is it thousands?). Even though I cannot vote (voting rights for Virtual Cats???), I have found a great site to be informed about judicial candidates - New York State Judicial Candidate Voter Guide .

And, if you are confused (as I was) about the different courts and districts in Nassau County, you can read a brief description on the same page. For more detail on the court system, link to New York State Courts - an Introductory Guide . The first few pages have a great explanation of the jurisdiction of the various courts.

Make sure you go out and vote! I would if I could.
Ernster, the Virtual Library Cat

PridePrint

2011-10-26T11:28:00.002-04:00

Attention All Students,

Do you have a PC laptop/notebook computer or an Apple MacBook laptop and use the Hofstra Wireless network? Then you can print your documents from your computer to either of our two wireless printers located in the Law School using the PridePrint software.

You can download and install the PridePrint software for the Hofstra Law School specific printers by going to http://law.hofstra.edu/prideprint (you will need to login to the Hofstra Portal with your Hofstra username and password). The software supports Windows 7, Vista and XP as well as MAC Lion, Snow Leopard and Leopard operating systems.

One PridePrint wireless printer is located in the 24 hour first floor lab, while the other printer is located in the Law Library, outside of the 24 Hour lab near the public access workstations. You do not need a card swipe for either printer. The PridePrint software automatically deducts the print amount from your account. Remember, the Hofstra Law School printers only charge 5 cents per single sided page.

If you have any questions on this, please contact us at either lawhelp@hofstra.edu or by phone at (516) 463-4192.

Dean Moore

Ernster, the Virtual Library Cat

Research Resources: GlobaLex

2011-10-25T07:45:00.001-04:00

Published by the Hauser Global Law School Program at NYU School of Law, GlobaLex is an electronic publication dedicated to international and foreign research. New and updated research guides published by GlobaLex include:

New research guides:

Nuclear Law Research Guide By Linda Tashbook

Updated research guides:

The Crisis in Darfur: Researching the Legal Issues by Amy Burchfield
An Introduction to Sources for Treaty Research By Mark Engsberg and Mary Beth Chappell

To Access Globalex:

Go to the Library's home page, click "Online Resources"
Then, click on the "International Law" or "Foreign/Comparative Law" link
Scroll down, click the "GlobaLex" link

Ernster, the Virtual Library Cat

Interlibrary Loan

2011-10-24T14:18:00.004-04:00

Are you writing a paper and the book or journal article you need cannot be obtained at the Law Library or Axinn Library? Please remember that you may request books or articles that we do not have through interlibrary loan. Just go to the Law Library's homepage and click on the "Interlibrary Loan" link. If you have not used this service, you will create your account and then place your loan requests. When the material requested arrives you will be notified by email and can pick up the material at the Circulation Desk. Books are on loan so before the due date drop the books at the Circulation Desk and we will return the book(s) to the lending library.

You only need to create the account once, but you may request interlibrary loans as needed. You can also manage your requests through your account. Check out our policy and talk with a librarian if you have further questions.
Ernster, the Virtual Library Cat

United States Census Bureau QuickFacts Tables

2011-10-23T13:08:00.001-04:00

The U.S. Census Bureau recently released updated summary profiles for various geographical areas within the 50 states. The tables include updated information from frequently requested statistics and provide statistics for all counties, cities and towns with more than 5,000 people. They also include information from various Census Bureau programs including the 2010 Census, 2010 American Community Survey and 2007 Survey of Business Owners, as well as student state facts. Access the full updated tables here.
Ernster, the Virtual Library Cat

Find me on Facebook

2011-10-21T14:53:00.002-04:00

No, I do not have my own Facebook page. The Deane Law Library allows me to prowl on their Wall. So, you can find my postings as well as other useful information. It is a great way to stay in touch. And, I have it on good authority that some of the suggestions left in our Suggestion Box will be answered there.

Ernster, the Virtual Library Cat

Stem Cell Research A Legal Issue In Europe, Too

2011-10-20T14:20:00.000-04:00

Although polarized American responses to stem cell research often dominate the news, the practice is controversial in Europe, as well.

As reported at Jurist, the European Court of Justice ruled on Tuesday that, under European law, patents are not issuable for any process that involves removing a stem cell from, and then destroying, a human embryo. Read more here.

Ernster, the Virtual Library Cat

Another Free Speech Case for Supreme Court

2011-10-19T19:43:00.005-04:00

This week the U.S. Supreme Court added to its already interesting docket for this term by taking up the federal government's appeal of a 9th Circuit Court of Appeals ruling which struck down the Stolen Valor Act of 2005. This law makes it a federal crime to falsely claim, verbally or in writing, that you have received a military medal or decoration, with a one year prison term possible if the claim involves a major award such as the Purple Heart. The case of United States v. Alvarez involves an elected official of a California water district who falsely claimed to be a marine Medal of Honor recipient and pled guilty, but reserved the right to appeal on First Amendment grounds. The Supreme Court will now decide whether criminally proscribing this type of "false speech" makes the law "facially invalid" under the Free Speech Clause. You can read the court documents and follow commentary on this case at Scotusblog.
Ernster, the Virtual Library Cat

Research Resources: Electronic Commerce & Law Report (BNA)

2011-10-18T20:50:00.002-04:00

BNA’s Electronic Commerce & Law Report provides national and global perspectives on the digital economy. It also provides access to news of trends and developments, insights and legal commentary.

To access Electronic Commerce & Law Report:(BNA):

Go to the Library's home page, click "Online Resources"
Then, click "Commercial and Corporate Law" link
Scroll down, click the "Electronic Commerce & Law Report:(BNA)" link

Ernster, the Virtual Library Cat

Need a quick refresher on advanced Lexis/Westlaw

2011-10-17T14:38:00.002-04:00

Do you remember how to find a database? How to search within your search results? Use Shepard's / KeyCite for more than finding out if a case is still good law?

The Deane Law Library webcasts may be what you need. These were developed to be quick reminders on selected aspects of Lexis/Westlaw research. Move beyond the basics.
Ernster, the Virtual Library Cat

Cool reminder tool

2011-10-14T11:58:00.002-04:00

Need help remembering to do daily tasks? Could you use a reminder to stretch, exercise, drink more (your choice of beverage ;) ), work on your paper, whatever . . .?

Sign up for a free account at askmeevery.com for a text reminder for whatever you need reminding. You can also ask questions requiring answers and askmeevery will track your answers and give you the data. To sign up - enter your question and cell number and then text back a password.

Financial health warning: Not for those with limited texting plans!
Ernster, the Virtual Library Cat

Affirmative Action In The Legal News

2011-10-13T13:13:00.000-04:00

California Governor Jerry Brown’s recent decision to veto legislation that would overturn a passed ballot proposition prohibiting affirmative action is much in the news, but there has been quite a bit of judicial and other activity on this front, as well. For a brief overview, see here.

Ernster, the Virtual Library Cat

Research Resources: Current Index to Legal Periodicals

2011-10-11T20:53:00.000-04:00

Current Index to Legal Periodicals is prepared on a weekly basis by law librarians and staff of the Marian Gould Gallagher Law Library at the University of Washington. This publication provides topical access to up to approximately 600 law reviews and other selected legal journals under 100 subject headings. In addition, CILP provides full tables of contents of all journals indexed.

To access Current Index to Legal Periodicals:

Go to the Library's home page, click "Online Resources"
Then, click "Article Finding"
Scroll down and click the "Current Index to Legal Periodicals" link

Dates of coverage are from 1999 to present.
Ernster, the Virtual Library Cat

Columbus Day

2011-10-10T15:40:00.002-04:00

Columbus Day is celebrated on the second Tuesday in October. Christopher Columbus landed in the new world on Oct. 12, 1492. Educated Europeans knew that the world is round, but they did not know the North and South American continents or the Pacific ocean. Columbus expected to sail around the world and reach China or India. He was seeking a shorter trade route to the Asian countries since at the time it was necessary to sail around the Horn of Africa to reach the east.

Columbus Day is controversial. In the 19th century the celebration was rejected because of association with Catholicism and in the 20th because of the impact the arrival of the Europeans had on the native population. For further information check out Columbus Day - History.com.
Ernster, the Virtual Library Cat

New HeinOnline Enhancement: US Congressional Documents Collection

2011-10-09T13:42:00.003-04:00

The HeinOnline US Congressional Documents Collection has recently been reorganized to make searching easier and more efficient. This extensive collection contains the complete Congressional Record Bound version, Annals of Congress, Register of Debates, Congressional Globe and other important congressional material. The new browse options allows users to search sections separately and includes searching All Titles, Rules & Precedents, Debates of Congress, Other Works Related to Congress, and more. To learn more about the new enhancements click here. To access HeinOnline click here.
Ernster, the Virtual Library Cat

More on paper research

2011-10-07T14:56:00.002-04:00

I've been eavesdropping at the Reference desk and overhearing lots of questions regarding researching non-legal articles. A couple of weeks ago I mentioned legal articles indexes - Index to Legal Periodicals and LegalTrac.

Well, there are many really useful non-legal articles indexes as well. You can see a Subject Listing at the University Research Databases page. (You will be prompted to log into the Portal). I usually start with the multi-disciplinary index Academic Search Premier, so I do not need to figure out which subject listing to check. For Psychology and Sociology articles, two of my favorites are PsychINFO and Sociological Abstracts.

There are many other subjects available, so check out the subject listing.

Ernster, the Virtual Library Cat

U.S. Supreme Court's Upcoming Decision On Health Law

2011-10-06T13:08:00.000-04:00

As we mentioned in Monday’s post, the U.S. Supreme Court’s 2011-12 term began this week.

One of the court’s most highly anticipated decisions concerns President Obama’s health law. For a worthwhile aggregation of various news stories on that subject, and its implications for the 2012 presidential election, click here.

Ernster, the Virtual Library Cat

Thomson Reuters News & Insight

2011-10-05T23:30:00.007-04:00

Thomson Reuters, the company that brings you Westlaw and WestlawNext as well as Reuters worldwide news services, has a new web site combining Reuters legal and business news with commentary and related source documents from Westlaw. Thomson Reuters News & Insight includes national legal coverage, with specific coverage of New York, California, bankruptcy and securities law developments. The news and some Insight articles on the site are free. Law students and anyone with a Westlaw OnePass account may access the Westlaw documents featured on the site by using their Westlaw password. This is a good source to keep in mind for news and analysis on fast-changing legal issues for class and for legal practice.
Ernster, the Virtual Library Cat

Online Resources: Columbia International Affairs Online (CIAO)

2011-10-04T19:05:00.002-04:00

Columbia International Affairs Online (CIAO) is a comprehensive source for theory and research in international affairs. It publishes a wide range of scholarship from 1991 onward that includes working papers from university research institutes, occasional papers series from NGOs, foundation-funded research projects, proceedings from conferences, books, journals and policy briefs.

To access CIAO:

Go to the Library's home page, click "Online Resources"
Click the "Foreign/Comparative Law" link
Click on "Columbia International Affairs Online (CIAO"

Ernster, the Virtual Library Cat

First Monday in October

2011-10-03T13:59:00.002-04:00

The first Monday in October is the start of a new term for the United States Supreme Court. The Court's website was improved over the summer and now has a calendar of court activities on the front page. By clicking an the argument days, one can view what cases are scheduled for argument on that day.

SCOTUSblog is a good site for news and analysis of the U.S. Supreme Court's activities. The blog also posts briefs, opinions and transcripts as soon as they become available. The blog is a comprehensive free site for information on the court.
Ernster, the Virtual Library Cat

Making of Modern Law: U.S. Supreme Court Records and Briefs, 1832-1978

2011-10-02T13:06:00.003-04:00

The Making of Modern Law: U.S. Supreme Court Records and Briefs 1832-1978 offers a comprehensive collection of records and briefs for over 150,000 cases brought before the U.S. Supreme Court. The database is designed to serve as a primary source tool on aspects of American history as well as the U.S. judicial system. Documents include applications for review, motions, oral transcripts, briefs, petitions, supplements and more.

To access Making of Modern Law: U.S. Supreme Court Records and Briefs:

Go to the Library's home page, click "Online Resources"
Click the "History/Legal History" link
Scroll down to "Making of Modern Law-USSC Records & Briefs "

Ernster, the Virtual Library Cat

States Opting Out Of “No Child Left Behind” Education Law?

2011-09-29T13:11:00.000-04:00

According to a recent news story, the Obama administration “is allowing states to be exempt from basic elements of the No Child Left Behind law if they meet certain conditions. States can now apply for waivers so that they won't face federal sanctions under the sweeping Bush-era legislation”. Read more here.

Ernster, the Virtual Library Cat

New SCOTUSblog Launched

2011-09-28T21:07:00.011-04:00

SCOTUSblog, a respected independent source for online coverage of the Supreme Court since 2002, introduced this week its new, expanded version that will take advantage of an exclusive sponsorship by Bloomberg Law. Tom Goldstein, the attorney founder of SCOTUSblog, will remain as publisher with editorial control of the content, which will remain free to all. Coverage of individual cases and analysis will continue, along with new features. Stephen Wermiel, a former Wall Street Journal Supreme Court reporter, has posted his first bimonthly column on the Court targeted at law students. In their joint press release, Goldstein and Bloomberg Law discussed plans to collaborate on other new features designed to help law students learn about the Court. Beyond the expert coverage, SCOTUSblog will be rolling out a new "community" section soon that will offer moderated discussion and debate of a specific Court-related topic each business day. Take a look at the new SCOTUSblog.
Ernster, the Virtual Library Cat

NLRB Releases Report on Social Media Cases

2011-09-27T06:05:00.001-04:00

The National Labor Relations Board issued a preliminary report covering investigations where an employee’s use of social media clashed with an employer’s social media policy. Click here to read the report.

Hat tip to the Law Librarian Blog
Ernster, the Virtual Library Cat

American Community Survey 2010 is released

2011-09-26T13:44:00.002-04:00

The U.S. Census Bureau recently released the American Community Survey 2010. The release covers more than 40 topics, such as educational attainment, income, health insurance coverage, occupation, language spoken at home, nativity, ancestry and selected monthly homeowner costs.

The American Community Survey found at American FactFinder is a powerful tool to discover population and social information about specific counties. It is recommended to read the "Using FactFinder" to obtain the best results. You can construct your own tables and download as an Excel spreadsheet to make charts and display the information as wanted.

Ernster, the Virtual Library Cat

25 Greatest Legal Movies Every Lawyer Should Watch

2011-09-25T13:20:00.002-04:00

A few weeks ago, the ABA Journal had published an article highlighting 30 books that every lawyer should read during their career. They now have compiled a list of the 25 greatest legal movies. The journal compiled the list by asking 12 prominent lawyers who teach film or are connected to the business to choose which movies represent the world of lawyers and the law. Titles include 12 Angry Men, Philadelphia, Chicago and more. See the complete gallery of recommended movies here and many of the titles from the list are available at Hofstra Law Library on the Feature Films cart by the Circulation Desk.
Ernster, the Virtual Library Cat

A Better Article Finder

2011-09-23T14:20:00.003-04:00

Many of you have started your research for papers and notes. You all know to search Lexis and Westlaw for law review articles. But how many of you get results with your search terms that have nothing to do with your topic??? (I know there have been a few, since I have overheard you at the Reference desk.)

Yes, there is an alternative which can sometimes be a better way. Try an index. For law related topics, try Index to Legal Periodicals-Wilson or LegalTrac. Both of these databases are available from the Article Finding page of the Library's Online Resources.

With an index, you enter your search terms, and get articles which have those terms in the title or subject descriptors. Frequently, this retrieves articles more on your topic and fewer irrelevant results.
Ernster, the Virtual Library Cat

DOJ Reports Reduction In Violent Crime During 2010

2011-09-22T12:56:00.000-04:00

The U.S. Department of Justice announced recently that the national rate of violent crime decreased by thirteen percent during 2010. The basis for the announcement comes from statistics in the annual National Crime Victimization Survey . Read more here.

Ernster, the Virtual Library Cat

Article Finding--Law and Psychology

2011-09-21T21:16:00.010-04:00

Important legal research is carried on at the intersection of law and human behavior. Where can you find authoritative articles from a psychological perspective on topics such as jury bias, false confessions, negotiation dynamics, domestic violence, and informed consent? Two great resources are PsychINFO and PsycARTICLES, databases made available by the Axinn Library to all Hofstra students. Both are products of the American Psychological Association. PsycINFO is broader in scope, with citations and summaries for over 3 million articles and comprehensive coverage from the 1880's to the present. Many are available in full-text PDF, and others can be accessed by "Journal Finder" links leading to the full-text article in other Hofstra databases. PsycARTICLES provides full-text PDF articles from 78 landmark journals in behavioral science and related fields, including all American Psychological Association journals, with coverage from 1894 to the present.

To access these databases, click on "Research Databases" at this Hofstra University libraries web page. You will be directed to the Hofstra portal login page. PsycINFO and PsycARTICLES are listed under Psychology/Health/Medicine in the subject list of databases.
Ernster, the Virtual Library Cat

Online Resources: The Tax and Accounting Center (BNA)

2011-09-20T20:30:00.003-04:00

The Tax and Accounting Center offers analysis, news, primary sources, and practice tools covering federal, international, and state tax issues and financial accounting.

The Tax and Accounting Center is organized by subject or “Practice Area,” accessible via the tabs located at the top of any of the “home” pages. Practice areas include: Compensation Planning; Estate Planning; Real Estate; Sales and Use Taxes; Tax-Exempt Organizations; and Transfer Pricing.

To access The Tax and Accounting Center:

Go to the Library's home page, click "Online Resources"
Click the "Tax and Estate Planning" link
Scroll down to " The Tax and Accounting Center (BNA)"

Ernster, the Virtual Library Cat

a google a day

2011-09-19T13:15:00.002-04:00

a google a day is the new daily puzzle from Google. There is no right way to solve it, but there's only one right answer. Find the answer with your creativity and clever searching. They do provide hints and the answer under a link. This is a fun way to learn "advanced google" and improve your search techniques.
Ernster, the Virtual Library Cat

Online Resources: Mergers & Acquisitions Law Report

2011-09-18T15:18:00.002-04:00

If you are looking for federal, state, and international coverage of M&A news in litigation, legislation, and regulation, check out BNA's Mergers & Acquisitions Law Report. The Report focuses on various areas including securities, contracts, partnership, tax, corporations, intellectual property law and more. It also provides access to the latest M&A developments in a wide range of industries, including banking and financial services, telecommunications, health care, accounting and more.

To access the Mergers & Acquisitions Law Report:

Go to the Library's home page, click "Online Resources"
Click the "Commercial and Corporate Law" link
Scroll down to "Mergers & Acquisitions Law Report (BNA)"

Ernster, the Virtual Library Cat

Library Tours at Your Convenience

2011-09-16T16:25:00.002-04:00

Missed the Library walking tours in the beginning of the semester? Want a refresher on where to find what? Download the mp3 of the Library audio tour from the Library webcasts page . You can then play it on your mp3 player or phone as you take the tour throughout the Library.

And for those of you with smartphones, try our QR code at the Library's entrance to download the complete tour directly to your smartphone. If you want to learn more about QR codes, pick up a brochure in the Library.

Ernster, the Virtual Library Cat

President Obama Increasing Numbers Of Female And Minority Judges

2011-09-15T13:28:00.001-04:00

According to a recent AP news story, “President Barack Obama is moving at a historic pace to try to diversify the nation's federal judiciary: Nearly three of every four people he has gotten confirmed to the federal bench are women or minorities. He is the first president who hasn't selected a majority of white males for lifetime judgeships”. Read more here.

Ernster, the Virtual Library Cat

International Religious Freedom Report

2011-09-14T21:42:00.007-04:00

United States government agencies can be a surprising source of information about international topics. For example, The International Religious Freedom Act of 1998 (IRFA) required the State Department to establish an Office of International Religious Freedom and to submit an Annual Report on Religious Freedom to Congress. These detailed reports are based on data from foreign service staff throughout the world with input from human rights organizations, journalists, religious officials, and other sources. The latest report, released this week, covers the six-month period from July through December 2010, as the State Department shifts to a calendar year reporting period. The report Appendices include religious freedom documents from the United Nations and other sources. For historical perspective, all International Religious Freedom reports going back to 2001 are provided on the current State Department site, with a link to archived earlier reports.

Ernster, the Virtual Library Cat

Online Resources: Kluwer Arbitration

2011-09-13T20:47:00.003-04:00

If you are looking for an online resource for international commercial arbitration research, try Kluwer Arbitration. It includes case law, commentary, conventions, legislation and rules.

To access Kluwer Arbitration:

Go to the Library's home page, click "Online Resources"
Click the "International Law" link
Scroll down to "Kluwer Arbitration"

Ernster, the Virtual Library Cat

Reminder: 1L students - this is the last week for LexisWestlaw classes

2011-09-12T12:29:00.002-04:00

Just a reminder to 1L students that this is the last week for the mandatory Lexis and Westlaw classes. If you have not yet attended a class please sign up. The classes are scattered throughout the week and there are still places available. The sign up book is at the Circulation Desk in the Law Library.

You will be shown Lexis as well as Westlaw so please activate your account before attending a class.

There will be no make-up classes.
Ernster, the Virtual Library Cat

9/11 and the law

2011-09-11T17:50:00.003-04:00

Today marks the 10th anniversary of 9/11, for New Yorkers and many around the world it is a day of remembrance. It is also a day of reflection in which many of us will examine the impact of the attacks on our daily lives. As attorneys and law students, we also see the legal ramifications on our individual rights and liberties. The New York Law Journal recently published a number of essays in a special report entitled "9/11 and the Law: The Impact on How Lawyers Do Business and Courts Dispense Justice." This special report consists of a number of essays written by judges, legal directors and other attorneys. Each essay discusses the balance between liberty and security within the realm of the government's post-9/11 policies. Read the full article here.
Ernster, the Virtual Library Cat