About Your Library Number

Your Library Number is a 14-digit number which is found in the lower right corner of your Panther Card (on-campus students) and Student ID card (continuing education students).

General information

Your library number is a unique identifier that gives you access to all services at the library and connects to your personal library account.

How do I find my library number?

Look for your library number on your student ID card (Panther ID card or Continuing Education ID card).
Click here and enter your E-number, last 4 digits of your SSN, and Last Name.

How do I get a Panther Card?

Visit the Panther Card office in the Telecommunications Office located in the Student Services building or call them at 581-6596. All on-campus students, staff, and faculty are expected to obtain a Panther Card. It contains your library number and also provides you with access to an array of campus privileges.

How do I get a student I.D. card if I am a continuing education student?

Click here to fill out a form to get your non-photo student ID card which is offered to continuing education students. Eastern issues non-photo student ID cards to continuing education students. This card contains the library number which grants you the same access to library resources as on-campus students. Your library number entitles you to:

Access the library catalog and electronic databases
Check out materials at a distance and have them sent to your home or office (if outside Coles County)
Interlibrary loan services (request materials from other libraries)
Check out materials in person at Booth Library and 65 other academic libraries in Illinois. An additional photo ID is required for this.
Request reference services and electronic document delivery

What if the number on my Panther Card or student I.D. card for continuing education students doesn’t work when I try to access online electronic databases?

If the number on the card is not yet active, call the library’s circulation desk at 581-6071 (toll free 1-866-862-6684) to have it activated.

Can I use my library number during the summer?

You may use your library number as long as you have registered for an upcoming semester (e.g. Fall semester).

What do I do if I lose my Panther Card or my student I.D. card for continuing education students? Can I still use the library?

First, you should immediately notify the Panther Card Office located in the Student Services building (581-6596) in addition to reporting it to the library’s Circulation Services (581-6071) in order to prevent misuse of your card by someone else.

Can I obtain both a Panther Card and a student ID card for continuing education students?

No. If you already have an active Panther Card, you may not request a Continuing Education student ID Card. Either card gives you full access to library services; however, the Panther Card also provides access to many other functions on campus. Note: When continuing education students apply for a Panther Card in person at the Panther Card office, their student I.D. card for continuing education students will be deactivated.

If you have further questions, call 1 866-ToBooth (1-866-862-6684) or use the Ask A Librarian service to send your question via e-mail.