The McGoogan Health Sciences Library is transitioning to a new authentication system, OpenAthens, in an effort to improve security against unauthorized use of licensed resources (journals, ebooks and databases).
The anticipated completion date for the transition to OpenAthens is Sept. 30. After that date, users will be prompted to log into library resources through OpenAthens with their UNMC Network ID and password regardless of location (on- and off-campus).
OpenAthens users also can access the library’s subscriptions when visiting most journals or databases directly, without having to go to the library’s website first. Look for an option to “sign in through your institution” and select OpenAthens. More than 97% of the library’s resources allow for this option. Options that are not available directly through OpenAthens will remain accessible through the library’s website.
Once logged into OpenAthens, logins to other library resources will not be necessary for the duration of the session. Additionally, if users already are logged into Microsoft Office 365, the credentials will be passed through to OpenAthens.
OpenAthens offers the library a more flexible and secure system to manage resources. The new system also will help the library better support students and faculty by collecting data that will enhance its assessment of resource use. Questions regarding use of OpenAthens can be directed to the library via email.