Mastering the online library for the Bachelor of Laws program is one of the main keys to succeeding in this program and not feeling lost and overwhelmed. With several textbooks not available locally (and very expensive) along with a plethora of journal articles and cases that were necessary to read, the library was my go-to resource! It can be for you too! Here are 5 tips that helped me to make the most use of this priceless resource:
1 – Watch the Online Library Tutorial. Start with the tutorials available to discover how to use and access the resources properly. The site has tutorials that show you how to utilize the library. You may think “How hard could typing something in the search bar be?” but with a labyrinth of information, I’d strongly advise you to start there to comfortably and confidently use the library system.
2 – Get familiar with the databases. Explore the Virtual Learning Environment (VLE) and all the digital databases available to know where to find exactly what you want, when you want it. The library provides access to several databases where you can find almost any material to assist you with understanding the concepts you’re studying, be it journal articles, judgments, textbooks etc. My favourites were Westlaw, BAILII, VLe Books, and vLexjustis.
3 - Use the shortcut search function wisely. When searching for books, articles, or journals, use keywords and filters to narrow down results. You can check options to limit by date, subject, or resource type so you get the most relevant and up-to-date material.
4 – Ask for help. If there is a document or book that you cannot find after a thorough, meticulous search, you can contact the library online. You most definitely will receive an email during the library’s working hours hopefully from the fantastic Ms Boots! I’ve never met her, but I would like to thank her because she has found so many needle in haystack journal articles and cases for me. Please note: Remember your time zone difference if you are an international student like me when you’re seeking assistance. I cannot stress this enough! UoL was sometimes 5 - 6 hours ahead of me, so I expected a reasonable delay in responses.
5 – Utilize the 24/7 accessibility of the library! Anywhere you are in the world you can access the library’s resources. Bookmark, highlight or make notes of resources that you find useful. Using the 24-hour library meant that for some modules I did not have to purchase the recommended text. I also found alternative books to read to get a better understanding of the concepts and rules in some particularly complex modules such as Property Law or Equity and Trusts.
I hope these have been useful for you, especially if you’re a working student like me! Try integrating these tips to turn your online library into your best study partner. It really can level up your law school success!
Happy studying!
This article was written by our Online Library Student Ambassador and Undergraduate Laws Student, Jenny Constantine
If you would be interested in becoming an Online Library Student Ambassador, please contact us at onlinelibrary@london.ac.uk.