Notary at LSU, a branch of Louisiana Notary and Title, opened this month, marking the first time the Student Union will house a full-time notary public.
The on-campus location, in conjunction with Ricoh Mail and Copy Services, is located on the bottom floor of the Union. Hours have expanded to 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Monday through Friday, and discounts are available with a valid student ID.
There has been a notary in the Union before, but Leah Thibaut, the primary notary public with Notary at LSU, thinks the more consistent hours will better serve the University community.
Notary publics offer many services, but they all center around document authentication, Thibaut said. Notaries confirm the identity of a person and bear witness to official document signing.
Other services include validation of absentee voting, which many students who aren’t registered to vote in East Baton Rouge Parish will need in the upcoming midterm elections.
“We really want to get to know the student body,” Thibaut said.
Thibaut has been a notary since 1990 but said working on campus has exposed her to new and different situations.
“The atmosphere is exciting,” Thibaut said. “The notary basics are the same, but I’ve had the opportunity to work with international students and help them with their needs.”
Because many college students are away from their homes and families, Notary at LSU hopes can offer many documents making legal transactions easier for students. 
Louisiana notaries also offer legal document drafting, auto title transfers, powers of attorney and business registration.
Thibaut said it’s important that students do not sign their documents before visiting the notary. They also must bring a picture ID, preferably a passport or state-issued license.
Notary at LSU is offering free absentee voting notarization during the midterm elections. Thibaut said this campaign is a way to introduce herself and the new hours to students as well as encourage them to vote.
Student reaction has been positive during the first weeks of opening, Thibaut said, adding that most are just looking for a little assistance. Thibaut said Notary at LSU is always eager to help and guide.
According to a news release, Perkins Road Notary, another branch of Louisiana Notary and Title, previously has served students, but owner Morgan Field is glad to have a stronger presence on campus.