Lab Imaging

The first floor lab is closed at the current time. The computers are being fixed to hopefully solved the printing problem that has occurred recently. Despite a late start due to a problem with the install, the lab should still be done by noon at which time it will re-open.

And have a good Thanksgiving Break!

Ernster, the Virtual Library Cat

Thanksgiving week library hours

There are some changes to our regular library hours this week so that everybody can enjoy the Thanksgiving holiday. We will be closing at 5:00 p.m. on Wednesday and will be closed all day on Thursday and Friday. (Though the library is closed on Friday, the rest of the law school building will be accessible through the card swipe entrance.) We will be back to our regular weekend hours this Saturday and Sunday. If you are ever unsure about any of our hours they are posted on our website and on boards both in and outside the library. Our next change in hours will be for finals studying beginning 12/9.

Ernster, the Virtual Library Cat

Procedural Additions to Study Room Policy

Changes adopted as of today, November 21, 2005 : Keyless reservations and passes.

Over the last few years, the locked study rooms have caused a variety of problems, not only for the library but also to other users. Keys have been lost, misplaced, or returned days later. Sensitive or confidential information has been left in locked rooms long after the reservation for the room has expired, creating anxiety on the part of new users as well as an unwarranted expectation of privacy by the current keyholders. These are only some of the problems that have been encountered and which can be solved by keyless reservation. A keyless reservation system will also be necessary for the electronic study room reservation system we eventually hope to adopt.

Issuing passes will serve two functions. First, it will confirm to the requestor his/her reservation time, date and room. Second, in the case of a room dispute, it serves as clear authority for the priority of use.

Both of these measures are intended to improve the overall study room experience, though we realize that they will affect some side benefits. Users will no longer be able to lock their materials as they go to make photocopies or check out a wireless card. However, considering that these new procedures more effectively facilitate the assignment of study rooms for their primary purpose --- to provide a place where groups (ideally) can study without disturbing other patrons --- the change seems necessary.

As always, please feel free to leave comments!

Ernster, the Virtual Library Cat

Quick Reminder

Marilyn Monroe said, "I love libraries. You meet the nicest people in libraries." (She is pictured here with her then husband playwright Arthur Miller). Marilyn's words still hold true. Remember that the librarians at the reference desk all have law degrees. We know what this time of year is like for you- we have all been there. Please don't forget that we are here to help in any way we can (short of pouring martinis in the stacks)!

Ernster, the Virtual Library Cat

It's Thanksgiving Online!

Your Virtual Library Cat hasn’t forgotten what holiday is coming up. So it’s time for a little Thanksgiving fun and information. Compliments of the most authoritative source--the folks at Plimoth Plantation, the living history museum of the Plymouth colony—explore an authentic “First Thanksgiving” online. The museum web site’s interactive multi-media production, “You are the Historian: Investigating the First Thanksgiving” offers some fun learning for the whole family. Don’t miss the focus on food, including authentic seventeenth-century recipes.

Ernster, the Virtual Library Cat

More Facts & Figures

While I am in a number-crunching mode, if you need to get some statistical data on other topics, there are many good sources - both for the entire country and localities. FedStats , a great place to start, gives you an overview of the Federal statistical websites available. For more detailed information, try census.gov , which will give you details about housing, trade, population and even a U.S. Population clock. For more local statistics, go to the American Community Survey, where you can find details about the counties throughout the country, including Nassau .

(These contain information regarding human population, economics and social characteristics. We felines prefer to keep our habits a bit more private.)

Ernster, the Virtual Library Cat

Statistics On Crime, Courts and Sentencing, and More

Need some statistics regarding crime and victims, law enforcement, the federal justice system, or courts and sentencing? If so, then the Bureau of Justice statistics Web page should be one of your first online stops.

Ernster, the Virtual Library Cat

Lab Computers and Printing

As many of you are aware, there is a problem with printing in the labs in the Law School. This is part of a University-wide problem, and the university computer folk are working on fixing the problem. That's why the lower level lab was closed yesterday, as part of an attempted fix.

Ernster, the Virtual Library Cat

Judge Alito

Yes, I know we have already posted several times on Judge Alito, but I just discovered an interesting report that charts various legal events or matters pertaining to the activities of Judge Alito. Intersting data on the practice areas and industries that have litigated cases before him. West created this Litigation Profile report and posted it on Findlaw.com.


Ernster, the Virtual Library Cat

'tis the season

For online shopping! In a PC Magazine article reviewing six comparison shopping sites ("Price-Comparison Sites Strive to Save You Time and Money" 11/02/05), PriceGrabber came out on top. The sites reviewed included Become, MySimon, Shopping.com, Smarter.com , and Shopzilla. The Author also includes a look at Buy.com, Amazon.com, and eBay. This is a great guide to not only how to find the best price, but also how to use these comparison sites as a "shopping concierge". Saving both time & money is what shopping on the net is all about.
Ernster, the Virtual Library Cat