About the Library

The Sarita Kenedy East Law Library is the largest legal information center in San Antonio and the surrounding area. A federal depository library, the collection consists of print, microfilm, and multimedia items totaling over 400,000 volumes (or equivalent), which cover a wide range of subjects - U.S. federal and state laws, and foreign, comparative and international law. The collection and resources are cataloged and searchable through an automated library information system. The library subscribes to LexisNexis, Westlaw, LoisLaw, HeinOnline, LLMC Digital, Center for Computer-Assisted Legal Instruction (CALI), Index to Legal Periodicals Full Text, Lexis Congressional, Access UN, United Nations Treaty Series, and other information databases.

Built in 1984, the library features a two-story facility of approximately 62,000 square feet. The facility includes two large reading rooms and shelving spaces, two computer labs, a Rare Book Room, an Alumni Room (for reading and receptions), 17 conference rooms (or group studies), 136 study carrels, three media/instruction classrooms, and three copy/printing centers. There is a popular reading area in the library with popular magazines and newspapers. There is also a student lounge for breaks and snacks. The library houses two law review offices - St. Mary’s Law Journal and The Scholar. In addition, the library is home to the Office of Career Services.

The library employs a staff of six professional librarians trained in law and/or library information science, with an additional group of six full-time paraprofessional employees. The library serves approximately 750 students and about 90 faculty/staff members at St. Mary's University School of Law. Moreover, the library serves St. Mary's University faculty and students, as well as legal practitioners and the public at large. The library is open seven days a week and is closed on major holidays.

The library offers easy access to computers and the Internet throughout its facility. St. Mary's law students may use any computer in one of the computer labs for e-mail, word processing and the Internet. Building-wide wireless connection to the university network is provided for law students using a laptop computer. Multiple public access computers are spread throughout the library for patrons to access the online catalog and web surfing. Networked printers and copiers are available for St. Mary's law students and other users.