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Library Publications

A collection of the publications authored and compiled by the staff of the Judge Kathryn J. DuFour Law Library.

2024 Student Survey: Library Response

Thank you to everyone who completed the Law library’s student survey.  We received valuable feedback, which will help guide future projects. We’ve analyzed the results and read every comment submitted. Over the coming weeks, we’ll use the survey results to help us improve the services and resources that you have identified as being important to you.

Key Findings
  • The 30% rate of student participation in the survey was the highest response we have received since 2010.
  • Overall student satisfaction with library service remained high, with 100% of respondents rating the level of service as either good or excellent.
  • Library hours on Fridays are too short for some students, both in terms of opening and closing times.
  • The percentage of students seeking assistance from Library staff more than doubled since the 2022 survey.
  • Student awareness of certain Library resources remains stubbornly low.

For complete findings, see the final survey report and raw data above.

Library Response

While students are generally satisfied with library services, resources and facilities, there are a number of areas of concern. These concerns and the library's response are discussed below.

  • Library Hours

Although the Law Library administration extended hours on Fridays following the 2022 survey, a number of students noted that closing at 6pm on Fridays is still not inclusive in regards to evening students.  The administration will continue to reevaluate the Library's hours in light of demand and existing resources.

  • Study Rooms

Several students requested that the Library add additional study rooms. The Law Library is exploring options for adding more study rooms. We are hoping to make at least two more group study rooms available for use by the beginning of the Fall Semester.

  • Marketing and Outreach

A number of respondents commented that they don't have a good sense of the resources the library offers, and we noticed a number of resources are underutilized by the majority of respondents. This summer, the Library will work on developing a plan to target certain resources and services for marketing to students.

  • Temperature

Several students reported that the Library is too cold. The temperature in the Library (and in much of the law school) is centrally controlled by CUA Facilities and set to fall in the 68 – 72 degree range. While Library staff regularly monitor the temperature and immediately report problems to CUA Facilities, the response to these requests is determined by the staff of CUA Facilities.

Even though the survey has ended we still want to hear from you. Students are encouraged to submit suggestions to csl-ref@cua.edu. Thank you for providing input and making your library a better resource.

2024 Student Survey: Select Comments and Library Responses

CommentThe library’s website is not as intuitive as it could be. Resources are somewhat difficult to find. 
Response: This summer the Law Library staff will examine how we can make our website easier to navigate and how we can increase the visibility of popular resources.

CommentThe prior exam archive in Google drive could be organized better.
Response: Although the archive is arranged chronologically we have made available instructions on how it can be searched by professor or course (log in using your CUA credentials).  We will also look into whether the exams can be arranged in a more user friendly manner.

CommentPlease fix the printers on the main floor. Having to restart the computer every time to print is a huge hassle and eats up 10+ minutes between classes.
Response: A number of students have mentioned this issue.  Please understand that the University's Technology Services department controls how students access the printers in the Law Library.  We will continue to work with the Technology Services Department to improve student use of printers and other technology in the Law Library.

CommentThere should be a color printer. Many (most) law students use color for their outlines. Even if you have to pay for it using your student ID.
Response: Unfortunately, purchasing a color printer isn't feasible right now. The Office of Events and Conference Services (Room 204 in the Pryz) offers color printing and copying.