PIN for logging in to My Account

Just FYI.

If you've gone onto the GIL Database you may or may not have noticed this new banner scrolling along the top:



It reads, "PIN access for 'My Account' begins January 6th. Your library account must have a valid email address to receive PIN. For more information click this message." The short version is that we will be implementing PINs for patrons of the library if they want to access their GIL account, also known as My Account.

The following excerpt from an email from Meryll Penson, Executive Director of Library Services for the USG better explains the entire situation:


Effective January 6, the USG libraries will begin a process to implement PINs for library patrons in addition to the user identification number. PINs are personal identification numbers. We are implementing this process to provide additional security and to comply with increasing federal and state regulations and policies related to privacy.

When a patron attempts to log in to their account, they will be prompted to obtain a PIN. A unique PIN has been assigned to each active account. Upon clicking on the prompt an email with that unique PIN will be immediately sent to the email address in the Voyager patron information record. The patron will have a pin and then will be encouraged to change the PIN to something that only that person will know. This will work similar to other internet services.

Initially it will be a change so users will likely have a moment of frustration, but hopefully once they have the PIN there will be few issues. If the patron does not have a valid email address, they will need to contact the Circulation Desk and provide a current email address. We know some community users may not have an email address, so you will need to assist them.


This is just a heads up of what is to be implemented within the first week of the new year. We'll keep you posted.