Computer Access for Visitors

Library Workstations

Library workstations may be used by visitors. Access requires a user name and password, which is issued by the Identification and Privileges Office in Regenstein Library. Information on Library workstations is available here.

Use of Library workstations is subject to the terms of the Library's policy on Acceptable Use of Electronic Resources and the University's Eligibility and Acceptable Use Policy for Information Technology.

Campus Wireless Network

The University of Chicago Library is providing temporary wireless network credentials (GNet IDs) to guests of the Library in order to help facilitate online research and access to the Library's electronic resources. The wireless network cannot be accessed without authentication.

GNetID's can be obtained in the ID & Privileges Office during regular business hours, and are set to expire when a guest's library access privileges are set to expire. Library Staff, the ID & Privileges Office, and IT Services Technical Support cannot offer end-user support or assistance in configuring devices to use the wireless network with a GNetID. Guest users are responsible for configuring and troubleshooting their wireless device if necessary.

Alumni of the University do not need GNet IDs, as they may claim their Alumni CNet ID which will provide access to the University wireless network while on campus.

Eligibility requirements for users

• Eligible to access the Library
• Not eligible for a CNetID
• Have a valid photo ID like a driver's license
• Must provide name, address, email address and telephone number, which is kept on file in the ID & Privileges Office for 6 months after the expiration of the GNetID.
• Must receive a copy of and agree to abide by the University of Chicago's Eligibility and Acceptable Use Policy for Information Technology (EAUP).
• Must receive a copy of the University's Memorandum regarding the illegal sharing of copyrighted materials and agree to abide by the recommendations outlined in it.

Here are some other key points:

• Any issues with a GNetID, such as a lost password or a failed wireless access point, should be reported directly to the ID & Privileges Office. University of Chicago/IT Services technical support cannot offer any assistance and will refer you to the ID & Privileges Office.
• GNetIDs must not be shared. Individuals are responsible for all activity performed under their assigned GNetID.
• The wireless network at the University of Chicago is not encrypted. Thus, it is VERY IMPORTANT that GNetID users protect their computers and data by enabling firewalls and using secure programs and protocols (such as VPN, secure email, and/or secure terminal connection programs like SSH). The University of Chicago shall assume no responsibility should a device be compromised via any method while connected to the University network. Each user is fully responsible for the security of computers connected to the University network via the user's GNetID.
• If a device is discovered to be distributing copyrighted material without a license or to otherwise be violating the EAUP, the University will immediately disable the device's network connection and permanently invalidate the user's GNetID wireless network credentials.
  The University of Chicago may suspend or block use of this service without notice. The University may also refer suspected violations of applicable law to appropriate law enforcement agencies.