Topic 2

Local Library Accounts

Now that you have an idea of what the physical library looks like, we will turn to your actual use of your graduate library. This section delves into the nitty-gritty detail of log-ins, accounts, and levels of access.

UK-affiliated researchers access most library materials using their university-level linkblue credentials, the same you use to access MyUK and Canvas. You can use your linkblue log-in and usual password to access our subscription databases and online journals from anywhere with an internet connection, whenever you see a UK Libraries log-on screen that asks for linkblue:

In addition to the many places you can use your universal linkblue ID, there are a couple of other library research accounts to be aware of. In order to use the circulation and user account functions of UK Libraries’ search tool, InfoKat (what you might think of as your library card number at the public library, or that barcode number that would be on the back of any membership card), you will also need to sign up for a “distance learning library card” if you do not have a physical UKY ID card. If someone does happen to have a physical UKY ID card, their library card/InfoKat account number is found there; if not—which is normal for distance or online degree programs—they will register for a distance learning library card.

And finally, in order to use interlibrary loan (ILL) and receive scans of materials UK Libraries does not own or subscribe to, you will register for one last account, using your library card or distance learning library card number. Once you register for ILL, you will be able to use that site to request most any library materials around the world, and if at all available, UK Libraries will borrow them for you.

Because there are so many accounts involved, the activity for this section offers a grid that will help you keep track of them until they are completely second nature to you. You can turn to the quick-guide grid you will complete in the assignment, or return to this module to review, anytime you need to in the future. Further, you can find this information, and lots more, at the UK Libraries Graduate Student Survival Kit.