Account linking allows library patrons to view and manage multiple library accounts through the Vega Discover Account Portal.
After accounts are linked, patrons can access key features such as checkouts, holds, reading history, saved searches, bookmarks, and fines. The level of access depends on the type of connection that is established and the role of the patron.
Account linking uses two roles:
-
Sender - the patron who initiates the linking process and chooses the connection type.
-
Receiver - the patron who accepts the request and completes the link.
There can be multiple receivers, but only one sender.
There are two types of connections that can be established:
-
One-way - the sender can view and edit the receiver's account information. The receiver can't view or edit the sender's account information.
-
Two-way - patrons can view and manage each other's account information. The only exception is when the receiver is a minor. In that case, the minor can't edit the sender's account.
When you linked two-way with another adult or one-way to manage accounts (for example, in a guardian-like relationship), you can manage any currently circulating items on the linked accounts. This includes the ability to renew checked-out items, cancel holds, modify holds, and freeze/unfreeze holds.
The following table summarizes the roles and access levels for each type of account connection.
| Action |
Visible to 1-Way Receiver |
Visible to 2-Way Receiver |
|---|---|---|
|
The Overview page |
Yes + Sender can view |
Yes + can view Sender |
| Holds/Checkouts (view and renew checkouts, manage holds) | Yes + Sender can edit |
Yes + can edit Sender |
| Place new holds on behalf of a linked account | No |
No |
| Account Details (reading history, address, phone, and so on) | Yes + Sender can edit | Yes + can edit Sender |
| Preferences (saved search, default catalog) | Yes + Sender can edit |
Yes + can edit Sender |
| Change Default Catalog (Adult) | Yes + Sender can edit |
Yes + can edit Sender |
| Change Default Catalog (Minor) | No + Sender can edit | N/A |
| Bookmarks and saved searches | Yes + Sender can edit | Yes + can edit Sender |
Establishing the link
To establish the link as a sender
-
From the Account Portal, select Account.
The page for managing patron account and preferences is displayed. -
Select Get a Share Phrase.
-
Choose what type of connection you wish to establish.
A code is created. It is displayed on the Account page along with its expiration date.
To accept the link as a receiver
-
Select Connect Account.
-
Enter the barcode and passphrase shared with you.
Once connected, you can see a card with the connected account.
Breaking the link
You can disconnect the account at any time from the ellipsis menu in the Connected Accounts section of the Account tab.
If you change your mind about a connection before the other patron uses your passphrase, you can create a new passphrase by selecting Get a Share Phrase.
Account linking vs. Sierra's linked patron
In Sierra, linked accounts are created and managed by staff. Patrons can't view the link in the Catalog, and the link doesn't grant access to another patron's checkouts, holds or account details. Staff can view the related record when assisting patrons and can check out held items on behalf of the linked patron. All updates or removals of the link require staff action.
Account linking vs. Polaris' patron association
In Polaris, account associations are also created and maintained by staff. The association isn't displayed in the patron's online account and doesn't provide access to another patron's account information. If enabled, one patron may check out other patron's held items using their own card. The checkout is recorded as complete on the account that placed the hold Changes to the association must be completed by staff.