FARQ: Off Campus Problems

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It's time for another installment of Frequently Asked Reference Questions!


Since it's the beginning of the semester, the reference desk has been abuzz with problems related to accessing library resources from off campus.  So, today's FARQ is

Why can't I access [enter resource here] from off campus?


Well, many of the library's databases, electronic journals, electronic books, and other resources are restricted to staff, faculty, and students of Virginia Tech.  This restriction is facilitated by the VT network, meaning that all of the restricted resources use IP addresses to determine whether or not you are affiliated with Virginia Tech.  When you're on campus, you will (usually) automatically receive access to VT resources.  However, when you're off campus--away from the IP ranges--you need another way to identify yourself as a VT affiliate.  This is where "Off Campus Sign In" comes in.

When you use the "Off Campus Sign In" option (which should be available on all library web pages), you are authenticating yourself with EZProxy, which essentially makes your computer think that it's on the VT network, even when it's not.  This will allow you to access the "restricted" resources.  When you click the "Off Campus Sign In" button, you will be prompted for your PID and password:

If you do this, and still cannot access what you need, then you may need to clear your browser's history/cache/cookies, and start over.  Usually, this will clear up any issues with off campus sign in.  If you continue to experience problems from off campus, do not hesitate to contact me, or any other library staff members.  You can even IM us through our Ask a Librarian service for immediate help:  http://www.lib.vt.edu/help/ask.html

Happy off-campus researching!