Rinn Law Library

Services for Public Patrons

Access

As a participant in the Federal Depository Library Program, the Rinn Law Library is open to members of the public who have a depository-related need to be in the Library. We request that all public patrons sign in at the circulation desk and present current government-issued photo identification. (E.g., a valid state driver’s license.)

When the College of Law is in session, the Library is open 94 hours each week. A current schedule of Library hours is available at: http://www.law.depaul.edu/library/general_information/hours.asp

Library Collection

Most of the Library’s print and microforms collection is available for reading and research purposes*. Additionally, public patrons have access to both print and electronic federal government depository materials.

Computers

Patrons can use one of the four workstations near the reference desk to search the DePaul and I-Share libraries’ catalogs as well as selected federal and state government web sites. Additionally, they can use one of the two Westlaw KeyCite terminals to evaluate and locate citations to legal authority.

Reference Service

E-Reference- You may send an email using the online reference link found on the Law Library launch page, http://www.law.depaul.edu/library/. A reference librarian will respond as soon as possible, usually within one business day. University holidays may result in longer response times.

When the College of Law is in session, reference librarians are available to provide basic reference assistance and suggest general research strategies. However, the reference librarians cannot explain the law or help you complete specific class assignments. A current schedule of reference service hours is available at: http://www.law.depaul.edu/library/general_information/hours.asp

Photocopying

The Law Library has four public photocopiers. Copies are ten cents ($0.10) per copy and must be made with a “Demon Express” copy card. To purchase a copy card, use the DePaul Vend Transfer Station (VTS) located in room 402. The VTS machine accepts $1, $5, $10 and $20 bills. Please report all copier problems to the Circulation Desk staff. To request a refund, however, you must telephone the University’s Technology Contact Center‘s Help Desk at 312.362.8765.

*Current students, faculty and staff from I-Share libraries can also borrow or check out Rinn Library books that are classified as “7-day” items.