Providing Non-Traditional Library Services: A Bridge Too Far or Part of a Responsive Relationship

Presented at the Southeastern Association of Law Schools 2019 Annual Conference at Boca Raton Resort and Club in Boca Raton, FL, on August 3, 2019, from 9:00 am to 11:30 am.

Abstract

Given limited or shrinking law school and library budgets, what are the benefits and detriments to providing non-traditional services, those considered beyond the scope of the traditional library? For example, how might we assess the library: with a passport office; that circulates unique items like standing desks, computer equipment, and games; or that provides competitive intelligence? This discussion group centers on a variety of non- traditional programs and services provided or planned by law libraries. Discussion topics include how and why the service was developed and difficulties, benefits, and unintended consequences discovered in implementation and use. This group also addresses the question of what a “responsive relationship” means for the library and the “Yirka Question”—what should we give up when we take on additional responsibilities?

Moderator: Professor Kristina Niedringhaus, Georgia State University College of Law

Discussants: Professor Robert Beharriell, Nova Southeastern University Shepard Broad College of Law; Professor Michael Chiorazzi, University of Miami School of Law; Professor Mark Engsberg, Emory University School of Law; Professor Emily Janoski-Haehlen, University of Akron School of Law; Professor Faye Jones, University of Illinois College of Law; Professor Jane O’Connell, University of Florida Fredric G. Levin College of Law; Professor Tammy R. P. Oltz, University of North Dakota School of Law; Professor Caroline Osborne, West Virginia University College of Law; Professor Nichelle Perry, North Carolina Central University School of Law; Professor Leslie Street, Mercer University; Professor Carol Watson, University of Georgia School of Law

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