Law Library

ANNOUNCEMENTS/ALERTS

The Law Library will be closed August 8, the Law Librarian and staff will be out of the office.

The Law Library will also close August 14, 2025, for staff meetings.

See the Hours and Closures page for information on attorney key checkout, forms for the public and copies.

Attorneys may check out a key to the Law Library by visiting the front desk of the Criminal District Attorney's office.

Select forms will be printed and available for the public to pick up while we are closed.

The copier is in the hallway and will be accessible for public use.

Introduction

About the Hays County Law Library
The Hays County Law Library functions as a public resource center, serving the legal research and information needs of self-represented litigants, legal professionals, the judiciary, and county and other governmental officials.

The Hays Law Library provides complimentary access to a comprehensive legal research and reference collection in traditional and digital formats. The Law Library is a public resource where individuals can conduct research using computers, access print legal materials, electronically file documents, draft legal forms and meet with clients to prepare necessary documentation or locate research resources.

The Law Library operates through a portion of civil court costs dedicated to the library's operation, per Local Government Code §323.023.

The Hays County Law Library is a member of the American Association of Law Libraries and the Southwestern Association of Law Libraries.

Mission

The mission of the Hays County Law Library is to facilitate access to justice by providing patrons with relevant, current, accurate, and practical legal information.

As a public resource, the library is committed to serving the legal information needs of self-represented litigants, legal professionals, members of the judiciary, and county and governmental officials. Ensuring public access to legal information is crucial for promoting open and equitable access to the justice system.

We are committed to modernizing and enhancing our services and user experience, actively engaging with the communities within our county, and offering educational resources to help bridge the justice gap.

Vision

The Hays County Law Library effectively links the public to the world of legal research and practice. Public access to legal information is crucial for open and equal access to the justice system.

By fostering partnerships with local organizations and embracing technology, we aim to bridge the gap between legal information and those who need it most.

Fulfilling our Mission

Community Engagement & Partnerships

Enhance awareness of Hays County Law Library services through marketing efforts, including pamphlets, flyers, and banners.
Collaborate with Hays County departments and public libraries in the area to evaluate community needs.
Develop digital and print resource guides that link communities to legal aid and information.
Establish partnerships with legal aid organizations to guarantee access to justice for low-income individuals.

Education

Enhance the knowledge of library staff by providing educational opportunities, training sessions, and conferences.
Develop public user guides to assist users in conducting research and utilizing various databases and websites effectively.
Provide continuing legal education courses for legal professionals, covering topics such as ethics and the application of Generative AI in legal research.

Modernizing and Enhancing Services and User Experience

Maintain a sustainable collection of print and electronic legal materials relevant to the community's needs.
Ensure knowledgeable library staff facilitate access to legal resources, with volunteers extending hours.
Offer modern, well-maintained facilities for research, study, and collaboration.
Foster a safe, collaborative environment for interactions among legal professionals and the public for drafting and research.

Law Library Hours

Monday: 8:00 am - 4:00 pm
Tuesday: 8:00 am - 4:00 pm
Wednesday: 8:00 am - 4:00 pm
Thursday: 8:00 am - 4:00 pm
Friday: 8:00 am - 12:00 pm
Saturday: Closed
Sunday: Closed

Law Library - Closed

08/14/2025

Closed

Melody Barron

Hays County Law Librarian

Visit the Staff page to learn more about how Law Library staff can help you.

Hours Notice:

Please visit the Hours and Closures page for more information about special hours and closures.

Hours are subject to change without notice. There is only one part-time Law Librarian on staff working with interns and volunteers. Due to staff availability, the library may be closed during posted hours.