The newly installed electronic system at the entrance of the main downtown library has been set up to accustom faculty, staff and students to start carrying their IDs with them at all times. Once AUC moves to the new campus this summer, no one will be allowed on campus without an ID.
Since early January, students, faculty and staff have been urged to use the new-style AUC identification card to gain access to the Main Library. Now library users can get past the entrance once their new ID is scanned and approved by a sensor. The device immediately signals any invalid ID. Cardholders of the old ID are still permitted inside the library, but only once their name has been verified in the system.
"The new card is much more efficient and adaptable because it can hold more information and serve many purposes," explained Lesley Tweddle, associate dean for library administration. The new-style ID, designed for the new campus, is in fact a smart card that no longer simply contains a color photo and a bar code but also a minute built-in chip encoded with cardholder information. The chip is conveniently readable from a distance, and also provides information on the cardholder's eligibility to other services such as parking and student housing.
The new identification card has been available since last May; however 15 percent of the AUC community has not replaced their old cards with the new ones. "We highly encourage those remaining to do so as soon as possible," said Lamia Eid, director of library external relations.
The ID and visitors services unit is located in the basement of the Main Library on the Greek Campus. The offices hours are 9:00 am to 2:30 pm, Sunday through Thursday.
