Page 261 - 2024 Orientation Manual

Legal Education & Assistance Program (LEAP)/ “Lawyers in Libraries”
LEAP is a partnership initiated by the LSBA with the Law Library of Louisiana, legal aid
organizations, and public libraries statewide. The program provides libraries with specialized
resources on frequently sought topics, training for library staff on how to assist patrons seeking
legal information without violating rules surrounding legal advice, and supplemental research
support from the Law Library of Louisiana (located at the Louisiana Supreme Court). These
services are available to all public libraries in the state but are especially impactful in areas without
a physical legal aid office and/or pro bono program.

LEAP is highlighted by “Lawyers in Libraries” events, which bring pro bono attorneys into
libraries to provide limited services. Events are held throughout the year but culminate in the
annual week of service held in October in conjunction with National Celebrate Pro Bono Week.
ATJ staff provide logistical support and resources via www.LouisianaLawyersinLibraries.org.

In 2023, lawyers volunteered in-person at participating libraries and virtually, offering both "Ask-
a-Lawyer" consultations, in-person and by phone. Additionally, webinars on important legal topics
were broadcasted daily during this week via our “LSBA Louisiana Lawyers in Libraries” Facebook
page. In total, over 134 in-person events took place statewide with 95 attorneys volunteers.

Planning is underway for 2024 Lawyers in Libraries events, which will be held October 21-26.
This will be the eleventh anniversary of this program.
LEAP was nationally recognized by the American Association of Law Libraries with its 2024
Excellence in Community Engagement Award.

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