Library

Our History

The Essex Law Association Library is one of the oldest County Law Libraries in Ontario. The Library’s rich and tumultuous history can been traced in the text “Lawyers of the Southwest: A History of the Essex Law Association, 1884-2009” written by Patrick T. Brode. In its 141 year history the Association has had over 95 Presidents, while the library has been managed by less than ten librarians.

They were all either professionally trained lawyers or librarians. Today, the library is operated by an elected Board of Directors and supported by over 500 member lawyers from Essex County. The Library provides its services to all Ontario lawyers, their staff, articling students, judiciary and courthouse staff.

Library Services

Reference Services

Our staff is available during regular hours to answer reference questions, give advice on research and provide assistance in locating and using library materials.

Book Borrowing

All print materials can be borrowed short term by members of the association and their staff. Borrowing privileges can be extended to visiting lawyers. All text books have a sign- out card on the inside back cover.

Interlibrary Loan

The library participates in Interlibrary Loan with most Ontario courthouse libraries. Loans from other Ontario courthouse libraries are free of charge, and can often be completed within a day or two.

Computer and Wireless Access

Computers in the library provide access to Microsoft Office 2007, the Internet, LexisNexis Quicklaw, Criminal Spectrum and O’Briens Forms and Precedents. Free wireless internet access is also available in the library (see library staff).

Copying Services

Self-serve or staff assisted photocopying and printing is available in the library. Photocopy and print charges are .25 per page + HST. They can be accumulated and invoiced monthly. We also provide a fax service for sending and receiving faxes at (519) 252-9686.

The Staff

Douglas Hewitt, BA, MA, MLIS

Librarian

Monday to Friday 8:30am to 5:00pm

Kemala Vernajes, BA, LIT

Library Technician

Monday to Friday 9:00am to 4:00pm

Cathleen Croshaw

Library Assistant

Monday to Friday, 9:00am to 4:00pm