Each of the Law Library's reference librarians has a J.D. and a Masters of Library Science. We teach 1L and LL.M. legal research, a seminar in advanced legal research techniques, and offer workshops and research sessions throughout the semester. We assist students, faculty, staff, and other Columbia and public patrons with their reference questions and research projects.
Librarians are available during the following hours* for in-person, chat, and email reference:
Monday-Friday 10am-6pm
During the academic year, librarians are additionally available during the following weekend hours* for chat and email reference:
Sunday 12pm-6pm
*Hours are subject to change and national and university holidays. Check the schedule here.
Reference and research assistance from a reference librarian is available via email at referencedesk@law.columbia.edu, via chat, and in person at the Law Library Information Desk during the stated hours above.
An appointment is not needed to meet with a reference librarian, but for a longer research consultation (either in person or via Zoom) it may make sense to schedule an appointment in advance.
The reference librarians can help with a variety of tasks, including: