Using the Library

Mask Requirments as of August 9, 2021

Masks are required for all  users of the library. This includes those that are fully vaccinated. We appreciate your understanding and cooperation. 

Library Closures

We will be closed on August 10th, August 27th, August 30th, September 1st, September 3rd, and September 6th.

With our reduced staffing we may be unexpectedly closed on some days. We will post any expected closures here. We appreciate your understanding and patience. 

Current Services

Until further notice we are offering the following services:

Research and Computer Use:

  • Appointments no longer required for in-person use of the library.
  • Appointments are encouraged for computer use: We have limited computer availablity so it is best to reserve a computer for use. Walk-ins will be accommodated if there is availability. You may be required to set an appointment. Computers use is limited to 1 hour per day.
  • Time limits on the amount of time allowed in the library are no longer in effect.

Remote Services: 

  • We answer questions via phone and email outside of our in-person hours. Please leave us a message or email us for assistance.

At this time, we are not providing space for study, meetings, or non-legal research purposes.

Reference Assistance

The staff is happy to help patrons locate information pertaining to any legal matter. However, the staff cannot give legal advice or interpret information found in books and other sources.

Informational Packets

We have created informational packets that cover topics we are frequently asked about. These packets contain an overview of each process and the particular procedures relevant to Santa Cruz County. There is a nominal fee charged for all packets. 

Informational Events

Law Library and Self-Help Center staff conduct monthly workshops on various topics including: Small Claims, Divorce, and Record Clearance. Please see our Events Schedule located on our “Events” page.

Document Delivery

If you are unable to come to the library, the staff will E-mail library materials to you at a nominal charge. Our document delivery is limited to case citations, subject matter retrival from secondary materials, and limited scope mediated searches (search query provided by requestor). 

Computer Access

We have seven public computer terminals available. Our computers are intended for legal research, the completion and creation of legal forms or other legal related matters only.  You may be asked to leave the computer if you are not engaged in legal research. 

Computer Assisted Legal Research

The law library provides Internet access, Westlaw, Legal Information Reference Center and selected software applications. Use of the library’s public terminals is restricted to legal research only. Staff does NOT provide computer instruction. 

Mandatory Continuing

Legal Education Materials (MCLE)

Audio materials covering various current topics are available at a nominal fee for MCLE credit.

Printing/Photocopying

Photocopiers and printers are available. 20¢ per side (B&W) 40¢ per side (Color). Photocopiers can print from a USB drive and scan to a USB drive. It is 10¢ per side to scan.

Word Processing

Word processing software is available on our computers. Staff will provide assistance with properly formatting legal documents; however we cannot type up documents for you. 

Conference Rooms

The conference room is available to be reserved by the public for legal purposes, or by government agencies and non-profits. Other uses may be permitted at the discretion of the Law Librarian or designee. Possible uses of the room may include attorney-client meetings, depositions, mediations, classes, and group meetings. The room can be reserved during our normal business hours. Please see our “Policies” page for more information regarding pricing and rules.

Library Tours

The staff will provide tours of the library upon request. Advance notice is recommended. Tours for groups of four or more may be scheduled after regular business hours.