Christopher S. O'Byrne

Christopher S. O'Byrne serves as a Research Librarian at the Kresge Law Library of the University of Notre Dame Law School, where he has held faculty status since 2006. As Chair of the library's communications team, he leads electronic bulletin boards, social media, and promotional initiatives while supervising library internships and law student externships.

His academic background includes:

• B.A. in Classics from Reed College
• M.A. in Teaching, Latin and Classical Humanities from University of Massachusetts
• J.D. from University of Washington
• M.L.I.S. with Certificate in Law Librarianship from University of Washington (2006)

O'Byrne's research focuses on copyright law, disability law, and Roman law, with significant contributions to legal research methodology. He actively supports faculty and students in both legal and non-legal research domains, emphasizing accessibility in digital resource utilization and cost-aware research practices. His expertise extends to non-legal databases and evolving legal information systems.

His 15+ publications in Law Library News reveal consistent trends in legal research tool evolution, shifting from print resources to digital platforms like Bloomberg Law and Westlaw. Articles systematically address cost-effective strategies, user education, and technological adaptation in legal information systems, demonstrating practical application of research methodologies.

Professional recognition includes:

• Spirit of the FCIL-SIS Award from American Association of Law Libraries

O'Byrne mentors students through library internships and law externships, directing readings across diverse placements. He teaches Legal Research (LAW60703) and Advanced Legal Research courses while contributing to three AALL Special Interest Sections: Academic Law Libraries, Foreign Comparative and International Law, and Legal History and Rare Books. His leadership in communications initiatives bridges traditional library strengths with modern patron engagement channels.

As communications team chair, he orchestrates the library's digital presence through electronic boards and social media, transforming promotional strategies while maintaining core service values. His work exemplifies the integration of historical legal scholarship with contemporary research technologies.