Getting to Know Sam Cabo
Q: Tell us about yourself.
A: I am the digital resources librarian here at the School of Law. This is my first academic librarian role. I interned at the law library at the University of Pittsburgh while I was getting my master's in information and library science. But this is my first real academic library job. I was a law librarian in a few law firms, at K&L Gates and then at Arnold & Porter, but I am very excited to be in academics now.
Q: How did you decide to become a librarian?
A: I always really have enjoyed school, learning, doing research and writing. When I was graduating college, I had contemplated going to get my degree in library science but decided instead to go to law school. I was in law school and was always really excelling at the research and the writing and not so much the litigation. I didn't feel really comfortable in that space. I started pursuing opportunities that leaned more toward case prep or research and things like that, and then sort of realized that I could make a career out of that. It was very exciting when I learned that – it’s just the perfect blend of everything that I like to do, and that I feel like I do well. I'm really glad I found it.
Q: How did you end up working at the University of Richmond?
A: I love Richmond. My siblings live here, so I really wanted to be close to them and I moved here during quarantine and had been hoping to stay. When this opportunity came up, I couldn't pass it up.
Q: What do you like the most about working with law students?
A: After having been a law student and then working with them in law firms, I like being here with them now, right when they’re thinking about and starting their careers. As summer and fall associates, I know what on-the-job questions they ask, what they feel like they need in order to do their jobs well, as well as, the things law school and other experience has already made them really good at. I think moving to the academic side of librarianship gets me ahead of that and allows me to help them now, before they go out into the workforce. I hope any impact I’m able to make here helps them feel more prepared to start and succeed in their careers.
Q: How can students benefit from your role in the law school?
A: I manage the digital resources: If it's online, I'm your go-to person if you have any technical or access issues, and I’m happy to help you find an e-resource that fits your research or spading needs. I also manage the digital study aids. If you have any questions regarding electronic sources, or need more information on what's available to you, where or how to get started, or how to use a resource to its full capabilities, I can help. I also have experience as a corporate/law firm law librarian. If you ever have questions about what research, practice resources, or tools you might expect to use during your intern or externships, feel free to get in touch.
Q: What would be your advice for first year students on accessing resources: where to start, where to go, what to do?
A: I would start with what you have in front of you. Cases, articles, etc. will cite to valuable secondary/reference sources that you can turn to. You also have a robust collection of both digital and physical materials at your disposal between both the Muse and Boatwright library catalogs. The Muse A-Z Database list allows you to search all e-resources by subject or keyword. Study aids can also be invaluable and accommodate multiple learning styles. When it comes to study aids; however, I would say not to lean too heavily on any one thing and always defer to what your professor is teaching you along with any resources they’re sharing or recommending. Don’t forget the Muse librarians are all here at your disposal! Drop by the reference desk or send us an email. We're always happy to hear from and help you.
Interview conducted by Salua Kamerow, L’22.
Transcript lightly edited for length/clarity.