Access AI at Bowdoin with LibreChat

Questions

  • Can I use ChatGPT on campus?
  • What is LibreChat, and how is it different from ChatGPT?
  • Who at Bowdoin can use LibreChat?
  • Do I need to install anything to use LibreChat?
  • Are there any privacy or data safety tips I should follow?

Environment

This article applies to Bowdoin College students, staff, and faculty. ChatGPT (the consumer app) is not directly available on campus. Instead, Bowdoin provides access to OpenAI’s GPT models, and other AI models as configured by the College, through a web-based tool called LibreChat. LibreChat works in modern web browsers (Chrome, Edge, Firefox, Safari) on both campus and off-campus networks, and requires your Bowdoin login.

Resolution

  1. Open a supported web browser (Chrome, Edge, Firefox, or Safari) on your computer or mobile device.
  2. Go to https://login.bowdoin.edu, then select the LibreChat tile provided there.
    1. NOTE: Students will need to complete the "Ethics of Generative AI" course in Canvas before they'll be provided access to LibreChat.
  3. Sign in with your Bowdoin username and password if prompted.
  4. Start a new chat. If you see a model menu, choose the option you need (for example, an OpenAI GPT model such as GPT-4o or GPT-5). For an overview of GPT model options, see OpenAI Models Overview.
  5. Type your question or task in plain language. Be specific about what you need (for example, “Summarize this article in 5 bullet points” or “Draft an outline for a presentation”). You can ask for examples, step-by-step explanations, or a shorter/longer answer.
  6. Review the response and refine your request if needed. You can ask the model to add sources, adjust the tone, or focus on certain details.
  7. Follow data safety best practices:
    • Do not paste confidential, personal, or restricted information.
    • Remove names, IDs, and sensitive details from any text you share.
    • Review provider policies for how model inputs may be handled; see OpenAI Privacy Policy and OpenAI Usage Policies.

Additional Help

If you need further assistance, you can chat with Bowdoin Bot of contact the Bowdoin College Service Desk by phone at (207) 725-3030 or in person at the Tech Hub in Smith Union.

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