Page 69 - Panama City Living July-August 2019

present collection of hard copies is a fraction of the library’s original inventory, but hard copies are necessary for the layperson who either does not have access to or is not computer savvy. I continue to assist people with research using our hard copies,” she says.
She has assisted many young lawyers in their transition from legal research in a law school setting to their day-to-day work environment.
In 2011, the law library was relocated
to the Bay County Library, a much
more convenient and accessible
location for the public than the
courthouse. It has proven to be a
good move; according to Carol, as
of the end of 2018, the number of
patrons utilizing the law library since its relocation had increased by 38 percent. And the upward trend continues. “People who cannot afford an attorney will rightfully attempt to represent themselves,” she reports. There is pride in her voice. “Also, I believe pro se litigants are receiving a more encouraging reception in the courts than they had previously.” Carol’s patience and attention to detail is well known to a generation of lawyers and judges who have benefited from her knowledge and efforts.
Carol smiles when she describes the best part of her job. “When an overwhelmed and discouraged patron comes in and I watch them find answers to their law-related questions or they’ve properly completed a much- needed court form, seeing their pride and accomplishment is rewarding to me.” And, she says, sometimes a patron will return to let her know her efforts did not go unnoticed and that the outcome was a
success. “Sometimes I even get a hug,” she says with a smile.
Carol’s typical stoicism turns emotional when she thinks of the challenges. “It is so hard when a patron is in tears while explaining their situation or struggles to me, especially the Hurricane Michael-related stories,” she admits.
Carol’s typical stoicism turns emotional when she thinks of the challenges.
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