Reference librarians are available to answer research questions and assist in developing research strategies for law-related questions. All reference librarians have Master's degrees in Information Science and many have JD degrees as well. Reference librarians have areas of specialization and can recommend appropriate print and electronic resources. Reference librarians are available to help library users locate information and to provide assistance in legal research methodology. They may not, however, provide substantive advice or interpret legal materials for the benefit of Library patrons.
During the school year, the Reference Desk is staffed from 8am to 9pm Monday through Thursday; from 8am to 6pm on Fridays; from 9am to 6pm on Saturdays; and from 10am to 7pm on Sundays. Limited reference hours are offered during the summer and intersession period. Reference questions may be asked in person at the reference desk or by phone to (512) 471-6220. Reference librarians are also available to answer brief, ready-reference questions via email to refdesk@mail.law.utexas.edu.
Law students may check out any of the Library's circulating materials. While most materials circulate, primary source materials, digests, looseleaf series, periodicals, and reference resources do not generally circulate. The circulation period for some popular resources may be limited.
To check out materials, students should bring a valid UT ID to the Circulation Desk.
Circulation Periods -
Reserve materials – resources placed on reserve for law school courses by law faculty and a small number of frequently used materials – are available at the circulation desk. These materials are available for check-out by law students for limited periods. Some paper copies of past law school examinations are also available at the circulation desk, although most past law school exams are available online.
If you have any questions regarding the location of particular materials, please ask at the circulation desk or use one of the phones located on the red-striped pillars around the library.
TALLONS, the Library’s online catalog is accessible at six stations immediately behind the reference desk. Email stations available to law students are located directly behind the TALLONS terminals. There are also a number of computers located behind the reference desk available to members of the University of Texas community and two computers available for use by members of the general public. Wireless access is available throughout the Library.
Regional reporters and digests
Federal primary authority
Legal encyclopedias
Shepard’s Citations
The second floor conference room seats 4 persons and can be reserved by law students online.