- Can I use my library card to check out items from the Law Collection?
- The Law Collection is reference only and does not circulate. We do offer CLE CDs for attorneys to keep current, or for general education and those do circulate for 7 days for customers with a valid library card.
- Can I use my own Westlaw password for the Westlaw terminals at the library?
- Yes, on the computers available for internet access, but your account will be charged - not the law library’s account. To use the dedicated Westlaw computers, you will need a valid library card. Please bring that card to the reference desk and library staff will assist with logging you into the Westlaw computer.
- Can the library employees give me legal advice or help me fill out forms?
- No, staff members are librarians not attorneys. 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?
- Library staff are not allowed to mail, fax, or email documents or information directly from Westlaw, as this is prohibited by the terms of our Westlaw contract. We do offer Westlaw at three branches in Hillsborough County: John F. Germany 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 library does not provide notary services. The Records Office at the old main courthouse at 419 Pierce St, Room 140, does offer notary services. Customers may also get documents notarized at their bank/credit union location 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 their website.
- 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.