The COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 necessitated a rapid shift to remote learning, and legal educators found they could not only survive but thrive in a digital environment. As a result, an increasing number of law schools adopted online or hybrid JD programs. This program will explore the transformation of legal education through online platforms, which has facilitated a pivot in how libraries deliver services and support. We will focus on the first institution to secure ABA accreditation for a fully online JD program, providing a case study for libraries at other institutions. We will examine the challenges and opportunities that arise when students are not physically present in traditional classroom settings and discuss how our library leveraged this shift to enhance our resources and better support students in an online learning environment through virtual reference, database instruction, and a dedicated librarian for online students.

TARGET AUDIENCE:

This program will be particularly beneficial to academic law librarians at institutions offering online courses by providing insights into effectively supporting remote students and integrating library resources into online curricula. Additionally, law firm and government librarians who work across multiple locations will find value in understanding how to adapt resources and support systems to meet the needs of a distributed learning environment.

TAKEAWAYS:

1. Participants will be able to identify the most effective tools used to provide reference and other support for students that are unable to visit the library in person.
2. Participants will be able to compare the benefits of in-person law school with the flexibility of online classes.
3. Participants will be able to summarize the challenges associated with helping online students and learn ways to effectively mitigate those challenges.

SPEAKERS:

• Mike Martinez, Jr., St. Mary's University Law Library
• Casilyn Lewis, St. Mary's University Law Library

COORDINATOR:

• Stacy Fowler, St. Mary's University Law Library

AALL BODY OF KNOWLEDGE DOMAINS: Teaching + Training, Marketing + Outreach

CANCELLATION AND OTHER POLICIES:

No refunds will be given for any purchased AALL conference recording. This applies to non-AALL members only as the recordings are free for AALL members.

The opinions shared during this program represent the views of the speakers and do not necessarily reflect those of the American Association of Law Libraries (AALL). Recording, capturing, or using AI tools to duplicate, transcribe, or otherwise reproduce an AALL program in any form is strictly prohibited without prior written consent from AALL. This includes, but is not limited to audio, video, or any other content shared. By accessing an AALL recording, you agree to adhere to this policy.