Off campus access

Most databases (article indexes, full text collections, e-journals, etc.) require off campus users to log in using your campus ID number and Library PIN.

Campus ID

Your Southern ID number is the number in red on your HootLoot/Southern ID card and is the same number used to log into the BannerWeb system for registration and grades. If you do not know your Southern ID number, contact the Registrar, your advisor, the academic department of your program of study, or the Library Circulation Desk.

Library PIN

You must create a Library PIN (password) to log into the library databases, view and renew the books you have checked out from the CSU libraries, request books from the other CSU libraries, and access electronic reserves.

1. Create your Library PIN in the CONSULS Library Catalog.
2. Use the My Record link, on the right under the picture, and enter your ID number.
3. Leave the PIN box blank and click the Submit button.
4. If you have a current library account and you do not have a PIN, you should get a form to create a PIN.
5. Your Library PIN should be at least 6 characters long, and use numbers, letters, or both. DO NOT use "special" characters, such as *, #, or !
6. Click Submit again to create your PIN.
7. You can search the catalog to request books or view electronic reserves without logging in again. Be sure to log out of the catalog before leaving a public computer.

If you cannot create a Library PIN, or have forgotten a previously created PIN, call the Circulation Desk (203-392-5756) during regular library hours to have your PIN deleted. You can then create a new PIN. Call or email the Reference Desk for help in creating a PIN and using the databases, requesting books, or using online reserves; 203-392-5732 or eref@southernct.edu.

You do not have to log into the library catalog in order to search the databases. Go directly to the Online Databases link from the Library Home Page. When you click on a database title from either the alphabetical list or subject lists, you will be asked for your ID and PIN.

• Information for AOL users -- you must use a full featured web browser to access the databases. Log in via AOL as you normally do. If/when the AOL browser appears, minimize it and open a different browser and use the web via the second browser. Downloads of fully featured browsers are available: Internet Explorer, Safari, Netscape, Firefox, Opera, other browsers.
• Video tutorial on creating a Library PIN (Flash plugin required).
• CONSULS Login direct link
• Online Databases - search for articles, statistics, and other information in over 150 online indexes, dictionaries, encyclopedias, full text collections, e-journals, and data collections.
• More information about your library record
• Access tips

More information for online & distance education students and faculty is available on the Distance Education Library Home Page.