Bronco NetID makes it easier to access library resources
Dec. 1, 2003
KALAMAZOO--The University Libraries at Western Michigan University are making it easier to access library resources through the Web, and students, faculty and staff are being asked to take a few simple steps before the new year to facilitate the transition.
Currently, members of the University community can access library databases, e-books and full-text journals by making changes to their Web browsers. Under the new system, slated to begin in January 2004, users will need only a Bronco NetID, formerly known as a unified account.
"Faculty, staff and students have let us know that the existing process is cumbersome," says Bradford Dennis, education librarian. "We expect this new system to make it much easier for our patrons to access the information they need."
More than 14,000 full-text journals are available remotely through the University Libraries. Users accessed upward of 200,000 articles last year using just nine of the most popular databases, among more than 300 databases and indexes available.
Beginning in January, anyone who wants to remotely access databases, e-books and full-text journals must have a Bronco NetID. "We don't want people to get caught without the ID mid-semester when they need a journal article in a hurry," notes Dennis. "We strongly encourage everyone to sign up for the Bronco NetID before the first of the year."
About one-third of WMU students already have Bronco NetIDs, as they are used to register online for courses, request transcripts, pay bills and other transactions. All incoming freshmen were issued Bronco NetIDs this fall.
Students who do not already have a Bronco NetID can obtain one at several on-campus locations, including the Bernhard Computer Center in the Bronco Mall, the University Computing Center or the Kellogg Lab in Schneider Hall.
Faculty and staff who want a Bronco NetID must fill out an application for an account. Application forms can be found online at <www.wmich.edu/oit/faculty/accounts.html>. Any faculty and staff members who are unsure as to whether they already have a Bronco NetID are asked to contact the help desk at 387-5161 or <helpdesk@wmich.edu>.
Media contact: Jessica English, 269 387-8400, jessica.english@wmich.edu