Skip to Main Content

How do I access Library resources from off-campus?

Tips for using online resources when you're away from campus

About Access to Electronic Resources

All resources that are licensed by the Library require off-site users to log in with their CNET credentials before gaining access. When e-resources are accessed through the library website, you will be automatically routed through the appropriate authentication mechanism. When accessing these resources from the open web, however, you will need to format the URL for authentication. This page lists several tools we have that will help with this.

Use OpenAthens for Off-Site Access to Library Resources

OpenAthens is a Single Sign-On (SSO) authentication service that will allow you to use your active CNET ID to access the Library's licensed electronic resources from any location beginning on December 15, 2025.

How will OpenAthens affect me?

  • You will be able to sign in directly to many publisher websites that allow for federated authentication. Look for the "Sign In" link on the publisher's site (usually in the upper-right corner of the screen), search for "University of Chicago," then sign in with your CNET credentials.
  • Eventually, OpenAthens will replace EZProxy authentication. Once we decommission the EZproxy server, bookmarked links and links in course materials with the current proxy prefix (http://proxy.uchicago.edu/login?url=) will need to be updated. If you save or share links in Canvas or other systems, you may need to update your links. Please see Creating Permanent Links. The anticipated date for decommissioning the EZproxy server is May 2027.
  • If you are accessing electronic resources through the UChicago Library website, you will not need to make any changes.

 

LibKey Nomad

LibKey Nomad is a browser extension for Chrome, Edge, Firefox and Safari. It works with our FindIt service to identify publisher websites where the Library has licensed access. Because it uses FindIt, you can be sure that you are able to access an article, even if you aren't using a link from the Library. Learn more and get a link to install it on the LibKey Nomad guide

VPN

Virtual Private Network (VPN) software creates a secure connection to the campus network and gives you access to all resources that are limited to campus access. It requires you to install and configure software rather than using links in your browser.

Google Scholar

You can configure Google Scholar to use the Library's FindIt! service. This will link you to fulltext from your Google Scholar results.

​