Are key cards required to get into brown buildings

Yes, key cards—specifically the Brown ID card—are required for access to many buildings on Brown University's campus. The Brown Card serves as the primary electronic key for entry to residence halls, libraries, athletic facilities, laboratories, and other secure areas. All students, faculty, and staff must obtain and carry this card at all times while on campus for identification, security, and building access purposes.

Key Details:

• Residence Halls: The Brown Card unlocks exterior doors to your assigned hall (but not other halls). A separate brass physical key is provided for individual room doors.
• Academic and Other Buildings: Access is granted via the card's swipe or tap at readers, especially during evenings and weekends when buildings are locked. Some older buildings may still rely on physical keys in limited cases, but card access is the standard for most facilities.
• Authorization: Access levels are managed by departments (e.g., Residential Life for dorms, individual units for academic spaces). Unauthorized entry or key duplication can result in fees, lock changes, and disciplinary action.
• Recent Context: Following a campus shooting on December 13, 2025, buildings entered restricted mode, limiting entry to authorized cardholders. A student petition from December 14, 2025, calls for mandatory ID swipes on all buildings at all hours to enhance security, indicating that while cards are widely used, some doors may currently allow entry without swiping during daytime hours.

For specific building access or to replace a lost card, visit the Brown Card Office in Page-Robinson Hall or check card.brown.edu.