Have You Tried...CALI?

December is almost here, and that means exams (sorry!) are almost upon us. Most students rely on outlines and study guides, and on reviewing past exams, among other strategies. But there’s another resource that shouldn’t be overlooked. CALI (the Center for Computer-Assisted Legal Instruction) has a web site full of interactive computer-based lessons keyed to typical law school courses and texts (both 1L and advanced), prepared by law faculty from across the country. For example, let’s say that you think you understand most of a course, but there is an important topic or concept covered in class that you don’t really feel confident about. Chances are that you will find a CALI lesson on the topic—such as consideration, hearsay, diversity jurisdiction, or adverse possession—that will provide some clarity and review. Check out the CALI welcome page, where you can search for “Lessons” by subject, textbook, or course outline to find the best one for your needs. Hofstra is a CALI member organization, but you will need to register online with a special password (Law School Authorization Code) the first time that you use CALI lessons. Contact the Law Library Reference Desk to obtain this password from a reference librarian.

Ernster, the Virtual Library Cat

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