- Can I use my library card to check out books from the Law Library?
- The Law Library’s core collection is reference only and does not circulate. However, we do have a small rotating selection of books that can be checked out, as well as CLE CDs for attorneys to keep current or for general education.
- Can I place a hold or have items delivered to the Law Library?
- Yes. You can sign into your HCPLC account and place a hold on an item to be delivered to the Law Library for pick up. Also, items can be returned to the law library regardless from which branch they were checked out.
- Can I use my own Westlaw password at the library?
- Yes, on the computers available for internet access, but your account will be charged - not the law library’s account.
- Can the library employees give me legal advice or help me fill out forms?
- No, staff members are librarians with specialized skills in legal materials. The law can be very complex and you should only seek legal advice from a licensed attorney. The staff will assist you as much as possible without crossing the line of “unauthorized practice of law.” Staff follow the same guidelines as the Florida Supreme Court Library.
- Can the Law Library send me information from Westlaw?
- Law Library Staff are not allowed to mail, fax, or e-mail documents or information directly from Westlaw, as this is prohibited by the terms of our Westlaw contract. We do offer Westlaw at three library branches in Hillsborough County: James J. Lunsford Law Library, Bloomingdale Regional Public Library, and the Jimmie B. Keel Regional Library. Also, we now also offer Westlaw Remote which will allow you to access Westlaw from outside of the library.
- Does the Law Library provide notary services?
- No, the law library staff does not provide notary services. The Records office at the 419 Pierce St. Courthouse Annex, Room 140, does offer notary services. Customers may also get documents notarized at their bank/credit union locations and retail chains like UPS and FedEx stores. Searching “notary Tampa” online will provide additional locations and information. Fees may be charged, and if witnesses are needed to notarize a document, the customer may also need to provide them. Customers should verify service, fees, and the need for witnesses prior to visiting any notary location.
- Can the library refer me to a lawyer or firm that deals with the topic I am researching?
- Staff cannot refer you to an attorney but can provide the contact information for the Hillsborough County Bar Association’s Lawyers’ Referral Service – 813-221-7780 or online.
- I have a visual impairment; can library staff assist with research or filling out forms?
- No, staff cannot assist with filling out forms or for providing research assistance. Customers will need to provide their own assistance.
- Are there rooms available for mediations or meetings?
- Yes, there are five meeting rooms available. There is no cost for their use, and rooms may be available on a first come first served basis for up to two hours, once a day. If multiple rooms are needed or if the need is for court ordered procedures, mediation, deposition, court proceedings, it is recommended to call ahead and reserve rooms. To reserve a room(s) please call 813-272-5818. All customers using the meeting rooms must abide by the Code of Conduct Policy.