The University Libraries recently changed its checkout policy to comply with newly-mandated state legislation.

The change requires the elimination of social security numbers from library use.

Previously, social security numbers were linked to students’ NIU OneCards for material check out.

Staff members are now instructed to use the 17-digit number located on the front of NIU OneCards to identify students checking out materials.

Ultimately, the new policy will not change the way students check out material from the library, but it will change the way library staff can access student information.

“The student walks up to the circulation desk, hands the circulation staff person his or her OneCard and it is swiped,” said TJ Lusher, assistant director of Automated Library Services.

“What is significant is we are not pulling the social security number off the card any longer. We are pulling the 17-digit OneCard number.”

NIU OneCard numbers can be used for all circulation functions that pertain to the library, including available online status updates for students who have material in their possession.

Along with the online benefits, students now know their social security numbers will no longer be stored in library records.

“It is not so much how [the policy] benefits the library but how it benefits the community,” Lusher said. “We are now in compliance with state legislation.”