OpenAthens

Why is the library changing authentication services?

Library electronic resources are costly. OpenAthens offers increased security and control of library resources, reduces service interruptions, and allows campus researchers to access e-resources across library databases and publisher websites with just one login.

Will I need to log in when I am on campus?

For most resources, No. OpenAthens will recognize that you are on campus and automatically log you in. However, there are a few resources that may require a login. Also, switching browsers may require a login. While inconvenient, this is normal behavior and ensures your security and the security of the Libraries' resources.

My saved links or bookmarks to the Libraries' resources no longer work. What should I do?

The best solution is to create a new bookmark following these steps:

1. Start from the Databases A to Z page (http://libguides.ggc.edu/az.php).
2. Search for and locate the saved or bookmarked resource in the library collection.
3. Save a new link or bookmark using the permalink provided by the database or publisher website.
4. You can also use the OpenAthens Link Generator to create an OpenAthens link to the resource.
5. If saving a link or creating a bookmark to one of the Libraries' databases, click on the Share icon to the right of the database title () and use the friendly URL.

If I need help with my saved links or bookmarks, who do I ask?

Please feel free to reach out to us in any of the methods outlined on the Ask a Librarian page. We love to help!

How can I access the Libraries' resources without coming through the library website first?

When visiting a publisher website that supports OpenAthens, you should see an OpenAthens login form similar to the image below. The form will ask you to identify your home institution. To log in, ignore any Username or Password fields and search for Georgia Gwinnett College via the institutional lookup field. From there, log in using your MyGGC credentials. If the Kaufman Library subscribes to the resource you are trying to access, you should be given access to the resource.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

What is my Federation?

OpenAthens Federation.

 

I like to access resources through Google or Google Scholar. Can I use OpenAthens to log in?

Look for the login link on the resource page, usually in a menu at the top of the screen. To log in, ignore any Username or Password fields and search for Georgia Gwinnett College via the institutional lookup field. From there, log in using your MyGGC credentials. If the University Libraries subscribe to the resource you are trying to access, you should be given access to the resource.

What happens if I change devices or use a different browser? Will OpenAthens remember me?

OpenAthens uses cookies to remember your device’s IP address. If you change web services – from Firefox to Chrome or Internet Explorer – you will be asked to login again. Additionally, if you change devices, like from a laptop to a mobile phone, you will be asked to login again.

 

What happens if I clear my cookies daily, weekly, or monthly?

You will be asked to login again.

 

What happens if I never clear my cookies or change my browser? 

It depends on your browser, but generally, OpenAthens' temporary browser cookie expires every eight hours. After eight hours, you will be prompted to log in again. Also, if you clear your browser cookies or close your browser session, the cookies are lost and you will need to log in again.

 

What if I have other questions about accessing the Libraries' resources?

Please feel free to Ask a Librarian for help!! We love to help!!

 

The Kaufman Library staff thank Georgia Southern University Libraries for permission to adapt their OpenAthens LibGuide, with special thanks to Mr. Jeff Mortimore.