Accessing NotebookLM using a Bowdoin College account

Questions

  • How do I access Google NotebookLM with my Bowdoin account?
  • How do I sign in to NotebookLM?
  • Do I use my Bowdoin account to sign in to NotebookLM?
  • Do I need a personal Gmail account to use NotebookLM?
  • Where do I go to sign in to NotebookLM?

Environment

This article applies to all current Bowdoin College faculty, staff, and students. NotebookLM requires an active Bowdoin account (@bowdoin.edu email address). Alumni or affiliates without an active Bowdoin account cannot access the tool.

  • Who: All current Bowdoin students, faculty, and staff
  • What: Google NotebookLM at notebooklm.google.com
  • Requirements: Active Bowdoin account, a supported browser (Chrome, Edge, Firefox, or Safari), MFA device, and an internet connection

Resolution

Sign in to NotebookLM

  1. Open your preferred web browser and go to notebooklm.google.com.
  2. On the sign-in page, enter your Bowdoin email address (username@bowdoin.edu) and click Next.
    NotebookLM sign-in page with a field to enter an email address.
  3. If prompted to choose an account type, select Google Workspace account.
    Account type selection screen showing Google Workspace account option.
  4. You will be redirected to the Bowdoin College Single Sign-On page. Enter your Bowdoin username and password.
    Bowdoin SSO login page with username and password fields.
  5. Complete Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) when prompted.
  6. After successful authentication, you will arrive at the NotebookLM home screen, where you can create a new notebook or open an existing one.
    NotebookLM home screen showing the option to create a new notebook.

Troubleshooting

I do not see an option to sign in with my Bowdoin account

You may be signed in to a personal Google account in the same browser. Check which account is active by selecting your profile icon in the upper-right corner of the browser window. If a personal account is active, select Switch account or sign out first, then sign back in using your @bowdoin.edu address.

Additional Help

If you need further assistance, you have several options:

  • Bowdoin Bot: Chat with Bowdoin Bot directly from any KB page for instant answers.
  • Phone: Call the Bowdoin College Service Desk at (207) 725-3030.
  • In person: Visit the Tech Hub in Smith Union during business hours.
  • Submit a ticket: Request assistance through the Service Catalog.
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