Eastern Oregon University > Press > New card locks boost after hours security at Pierce Library

New card locks boost after hours security at Pierce Library

New card locks boost after hours security at Pierce Library

News contact: Laura Hancock | University Advancement
541-962-3585 | lhancock@eou.edu
Source contact: Karen Clay | Pierce Library Director
541-962-3792 | kclay@eou.edu

EOU photo by Laura Hancock / Effective Mar. 4, students and employees will be able to access Pierce Library during extended hours using their EOU-issued ID cards.

February 27, 2013
LA GRANDE, Ore. (EOU) – With the safety of students, faculty and staff ever at the forefront, Eastern Oregon University is proactively managing access and increasing security at one of the most highly used facilities on campus: Pierce Library.

With its extended late night schedules – particularly during finals week – the library’s new electronic card lock system will help ensure patrons can continue to conduct their research and study at ease after hours.

Beginning Monday, March 4, automatic locks will limit public access to Pierce Library at 7 each night. University students and employees must carry current EOU-issued identification cards to enter through any of the main doors during late evening hours.

“This card access system will free us up to focus on our primary user community – EOU students,” said Karen Clay, Pierce Library director. “We’re very pleased that we can minimize our security concerns and continue to keep the library open late at night for students to study.”

Current EOU-issued ID cards have a magnetic strip on the back that, when swiped, will activate the system in the familiar manner of a modern hotel room key. Card locks are already being used at the Quinn Fitness Center and EOU plans long-term to implement the system across campus. Access to all four of the residence halls is also controlled using a similar key-code entry.

The library’s normal business hours are from 7:30 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily, and ID cards will not be necessary to enter during this time. Online access to resources will not be affected.

Requests from non-EOU students or employees to enter the library after hours will be granted on a case-by-case basis and will require the advance purchase of a key card.

Anyone in need of a new ID card should contact the Registrar’s Office at 541-962-3607 or stop by Inlow Hall, Room 105 between 8:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday.

Other questions about Pierce Library access can be directed to Clay at 541-962-3792.