We have some exciting news that will make your research and studying a whole lot easier!

Starting Fall 2026, CUNY faculty, staff, and students will be able to log in to library resources from off-campus using their standard CUNYfirst credentials.

That’s right—no more juggling different logins. One username and password will now unlock both your campus essentials and millions of digital library resources.

What is Changing?

Currently, when you want to access databases, e-journals, or e-books from home, you might have to enter a library separate login.

With this upcoming update, the login screen for off-campus library resources will change to the familiar CUNYfirst login page. You will simply use your standard CUNY Login credentials:

• Username: Firstname.Lastname##@login.cuny.edu
• Password: Your standard CUNYfirst password

Why We Are Making the Switch

• One Less Password: You already use CUNYfirst for registration, blackboard/Brightspace, and payroll. Now, you can use it for library research too.
• Enhanced Security: Standardizing our login systems helps keep our campus network and your personal information more secure.
• A Seamless Experience: Whether you are on campus or working from home, accessing academic resources will feel smooth and consistent.

Who Does This Apply To?

This update applies to all active CUNY:

• Students
• Faculty
• Staff

When is This Happening?

The transition is scheduled to take place on Fall 2026

We are working hard behind the scenes to make this transition as seamless as possible. On the day of the switch, you might experience brief, temporary interruptions if you are actively browsing resources, but we expect downtime to be minimal.

What Do You Need to Do?

For most users, no action is required! As long as you know your current CUNYfirst username and password, you are good to go.

• Double-check your credentials: If it has been a while since you logged into CUNYfirst, or if you need to reset your password, we highly recommend doing so before the transition date at the CUNY Login Page.
• Update your bookmarks: If you have saved direct library links on your personal devices, they should still redirect correctly, but you may want to re-save them once the new login system is live.

Questions or Need Support?

We are here to help! If you experience any issues logging in after the switch, or if you have questions about your library account, please reach out to us:

• Visit us at the library
• Email us: [email protected]
• Chat with a Librarian: https://lib.jjay.cuny.edu/askus

Stay tuned for more updates as we get closer to the launch date!

Google. (2026). Library Access: New Login banner [Generative AI image]. Gemini 3 Flash. https://gemini.google.com

Disclosure: Drafted with assistance from Gemini 3 Flash and fully reviewed, verified, and finalized by Ignacio Sanchez, Electronic Resources Librarian, in alignment with CUNY’s Human-in-the-Loop AI guidelines.