xtra-Google

You keep hearing about all the wonderful features Google has and all the cool things you can do with it. The problem is remembering how to use it or finding the search box you need to use. Well, somebody has decided to make is easy for us by taking many of Google's best searches and putting them all on one page: xtra-Google. You will find a google search box with icons for Google Scholar, Google Print, Google Local, Froogle, Google Government (formerly Uncle Sam), weather, maps, movie reviews and many more. If you are not sure what an icon stands for just hold your mouse over it and the name will appear.

Ernster, the Virtual Library Cat

More Web searching tips

Is your casebook or study aid using a term you don't know? If you have your laptop open, go to either Yahoo or Google and type the word define: followed by the word causing confusion. For example: define: sanguine . Once you try it, I am sanguine you will not be sorry! ;)

Ernster, the Virtual Library Cat

Google Calculator

Did you know that Google is a calculator? Just type a calculation into the search box and hit enter or press the search button. The calculator can solve math problems involving basic arithmetic, as well as fairly complicated math. My favorite is the ability to instantly convert units of measure (ie "150 miles in kilometers" , "1997 in roman numerals", "3 cups in tablespoons"). Complete instructions can be found here.
Ernster, the Virtual Library Cat

Exams

Just a reminder that many past exams are posted on the main page of the law library's website . They are password protected. Ask your favorite reference librarian or anyone at the circulation desk if you dont have the password. Wishing you an easy week!
Ernster, the Virtual Library Cat

Top 100 Sites

PC magazine has just come out with its top 100 sites for spring 2005. Because we are always looking to help you with your studies, one of the categories is education, information & reference and another is search & portals. There are also many categories for fun and enjoyment, such as shopping, travel and fun, games & oddities.

Ernster, the Virtual Library Cat

No more animals in the Library

Even I know exam time can be stressful. But please, do not bring food into the library. Besides being against the policy, it attracts insects and the extermination process is bothersome to me. I have already seen ants around and I don't find them very tasty.

Also, if you bring (approved) water bottles into the library, when you are done, either place the bottles in a trash can or take them with you. Don't just leave them on/under the furniture. Thank you for your consideration.

Ernster, the Virtual Library Cat

Cleaning the Environment

As a fastidious feline, I can empathize with your requests (from the Comments Box) for a clean and neat Library. The Library Administrative office works tirelessly with the appropriate University departments in charge of maintenance to keep all areas clean. Of especial concern, I know, are the restrooms. I have been assured that the Law School Administration is working with the University for increased cleaning services in the restrooms. Please understand that because these issues involve various University departments outside of the Library and Law School correcting any problems may take some time.

We have had many comments on this issue. Consequently, I have added a section to the Blog FAQ.

Ernster, the Virtual Library Cat

Urban Legends

We have all heard a good story that may or may not be true, but we want to believe it because it is such a good story. We all know that alligators live in the NYC sewers. Except that it is not true. Or the famous "sushi memo" where a paralegal at a NYC law firm was asked to conduct research on the quality of the takeout sushi in the area. This story is listed as "undetermined" since it can not be verified. It has not been declared false because too many in law firms think it possible.

Take a quick break from studying and browse the Urban Legend Reference Pages. It provides the 25 "hottest" urban legends, subject directory and search capabilities. An analysis of the urban legend is given and some of the stories that are true are outrageous and funny. Learn the truth about the "Extraterrestrial Exposure" regulation (no longer in effect).

Ernster, the Virtual Library Cat

Exam Hours

Yes, I hate to even mention the "E" word. In the hopes of easing your anxieties at least a little, I want to remind you that the Library's Exam Hours start on Thursday night. This means that as of Thursday, April 28, we will be open until 2am - EVERY NIGHT. Our complete schedule is as follows:
Thursday, April 28 - Thursday, May 12
Monday - Friday 8am - 2am
Saturday & Sunday 10am - 2am
Friday, May 13 8am - 7pm

Good luck - and if you need a break, come visit me for a much deserved purr!

Ernster, the Virtual Library Cat

Law Practice Today - Advice for Young Lawyers

The March 2005 issue of Law Practice Today, published by the ABA, has an entire section of articles devoted to Advice for Young Lawyers. Included are "Twenty lessons for lawyers starting their careers" and "Unconventional wisdom for associates" among others. The entire issue is available online.

Ernster, the Virtual Library Cat