If both computers are connected to your local network them yes.
1.locate the folder that contain the files you want,
2. right click -> sharing and security (or something like that) -> click on the sharing tab (near the top) -> and then tick the "network sharing" box.
3.click apply --> then ok.
now there are two ways to do it from this point.
This is the first way ( i prefer this one, but in case it doesn't work i will write the other one.)
1. make sure your desktop is turned on and connected to the network.
2. go to your laptop and click start --> My network places.
3.the folder should be there click on it, nad you can view it.
Now here is the other way
1.on your desktop click run --> then type in cmd
2 a little black window pops up type in ipconfig
3. write down the numbers where it says IP address.
4. go to your laptop (while desktop is still turned on) and click start --> then search
5. a window should open, click computers or people --> a computer on the network.
6.type in the IP address of the Desktop and it should show the folders (the ones that you made available to the network) or the user of the desktop... i can't really remember. if it shows the user names of the desktop, just click on the correct one and then your folder should be visible.
Hope i helped!
By the way i am using XP so it may be a bit different on VIsta.
Good luck!