Research tools for today: new online technologies have transformed the way librarians can share and use information

Article Abstract:

Law firm librarians have developed a panoply of tools for harnessing the power of information technology, incidentally showing their own increased value in a time of confusion and rich resources. While the Internet is overhyped and disorganized compared to Westlaw or Lexis, it contains much of value, so librarians are devising ways to make it more accessible to attorneys. Some have also formed regional networks, such as the Metropolitan Library Network in Washington, DC, to better share information and resources.

Electronic computers, Electronic Computer Manufacturing, Legal services, Offices of Lawyers, Legal Info Systems, Management, Law firms, Computer applications

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CD-ROMs still playing role in the law library; but the medium is threatened by online and Internet services and new, advanced video discs

Article Abstract:

The CD-ROM format is now widely accepted by law firms after a long period of skepticism, though new technologies continue to challenge it. The solid entrenchment of the Westlaw and Lexis-Nexis online services resisted penetration by CD-ROM publishers, but eventually those companies made dual use of the technologies more attractive. Now most firms have some CDs, and many are installing CD towers for access over local- or wide-area networks (LANs and WANs). More legal titles also have begun to appear on CD-ROM.

Technology application, CD-ROM databases, Law libraries

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News-oriented political science sites aid legal research; now Web sites offer up-to-the-minute news stories as well as text of bills, partisan opinions

Article Abstract:

Legal researchers may find news links, reference sites, and political Web sites to be quite useful. House and Senate sites or other political Web links, such as political party sites, can provide information on pending legislation, budget documents, and so forth. On-line reference sites can help searchers find medical information, government documents, associations, and dictionaries.

World Wide Web

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