As a student or faculty member at Florida Atlantic University (FAU), having access to a vast array of library databases and journals is crucial for academic success. The FAU Libraries provide an extensive collection of digital resources, including databases, e-journals, and e-books, to support research and learning. However, accessing these resources from off-campus locations can be a challenge. In this article, we will explore the ways to access library databases and journals from home, ensuring that you can stay connected to the wealth of information available through the FAU Libraries.
Understanding FAU Library’s Remote Access Options
The FAU Libraries offer several remote access options to ensure that students and faculty can access library resources from anywhere, at any time. Single Sign-On (SSO) authentication is the primary method used to access library databases and journals from off-campus locations. This authentication method allows users to access library resources using their FAU NetID and password. To access library resources remotely, users must have a valid FAU NetID and password, which are the same credentials used to access the FAU website, email, and other university systems.
Setting Up Your FAU NetID and Password
Before accessing library databases and journals from home, it is essential to ensure that your FAU NetID and password are up-to-date and working correctly. If you are a new student or faculty member, you will need to activate your FAU NetID and set up your password. To do this, visit the FAU website and follow the instructions provided. If you are having trouble with your NetID or password, contact the FAU Help Desk for assistance.
Using the FAU Libraries’ Website to Access Databases and Journals
The FAU Libraries’ website is the primary portal for accessing library databases and journals. To access library resources from home, follow these steps:
- Go to the FAU Libraries’ website at library.fau.edu.
- Click on the “Databases” or “Journals” tab to browse the list of available resources.
- Select the database or journal you want to access.
- You will be prompted to log in with your FAU NetID and password.
- Once authenticated, you will have access to the selected database or journal.
Popular Library Databases and Journals Available Through FAU
The FAU Libraries subscribe to a wide range of databases and journals, covering various subjects and disciplines. Some of the most popular library databases and journals available through FAU include:
- JSTOR: A digital library of academic journals, books, and primary sources in the humanities, social sciences, and sciences.
- EBSCOhost: A collection of databases providing access to academic journals, magazines, and newspapers.
- ProQuest: A database providing access to academic journals, newspapers, and dissertations.
- ScienceDirect: A database providing access to scientific, technical, and medical journals and books published by Elsevier.
- Academic Search Complete: A database providing access to academic journals, magazines, and newspapers across various subjects.
Searching for Specific Databases and Journals
If you are looking for a specific database or journal, you can use the FAU Libraries’ website to search for it. To search for a database or journal, follow these steps:
Database Search
To search for a database, go to the FAU Libraries’ website and click on the “Databases” tab. You can then browse the list of available databases by subject or alphabetically. If you know the name of the database you are looking for, you can use the search box to find it.
Journal Search
To search for a journal, go to the FAU Libraries’ website and click on the “Journals” tab. You can then browse the list of available journals by subject or alphabetically. If you know the name of the journal you are looking for, you can use the search box to find it. You can also use the “Journal Finder” tool to search for a specific journal by title, subject, or ISSN.
Troubleshooting Common Issues with Remote Access
While accessing library databases and journals from home is generally straightforward, you may encounter some issues. Firewall settings, browser compatibility, and NetID authentication are common culprits. If you are having trouble accessing library resources, try the following troubleshooting steps:
- Check your firewall settings to ensure that they are not blocking access to the FAU Libraries’ website.
- Try using a different browser to access the FAU Libraries’ website.
- Clear your browser’s cache and cookies to ensure that you are getting the most up-to-date version of the website.
- If you are still having trouble, contact the FAU Help Desk or the FAU Libraries’ technical support team for assistance.
In conclusion, accessing library databases and journals from home is a convenient and essential part of academic life at FAU. By understanding the remote access options available through the FAU Libraries, setting up your FAU NetID and password, and using the FAU Libraries’ website to access databases and journals, you can stay connected to the wealth of information available to support your research and learning. Whether you are a student or faculty member, the FAU Libraries are committed to providing you with the resources and support you need to succeed.
What are the requirements to access library databases and journals from home as an FAU student or faculty member?
To access library databases and journals from home, FAU students and faculty members must have a valid FAU username and password. This is the same login credentials used to access other FAU online services, such as email and course materials. It’s essential to ensure that the username and password are up-to-date and not expired, as this can cause access issues. Additionally, students and faculty members must be currently enrolled or employed by FAU to access the library’s digital resources.
The library’s authentication system verifies the user’s credentials and grants access to the databases and journals. If users encounter any issues with their login credentials, they can contact the FAU IT help desk for assistance. It’s also important to note that some databases and journals may have additional requirements or restrictions, such as IP address verification or individual account setup. However, the library provides detailed instructions and support to help users navigate these requirements and access the resources they need from home. By meeting these requirements, FAU students and faculty members can enjoy seamless access to the library’s vast collection of digital resources.
How do I access library databases and journals from off-campus using the FAU library website?
To access library databases and journals from off-campus, FAU students and faculty members can start by visiting the FAU library website. From there, they can browse the list of available databases and journals or use the search function to find specific titles. When clicking on a database or journal link, users will be prompted to log in with their FAU username and password. This authentication process ensures that only authorized users can access the library’s digital resources. Once logged in, users can access the desired database or journal and start searching for articles, e-books, and other resources.
The FAU library website provides a user-friendly interface for accessing databases and journals from off-campus. The website is optimized for remote access, and users can access most resources using a standard web browser. However, some databases and journals may require additional software or plugins, such as Adobe Acrobat or Java. The library provides guidance on any required software or technical setup, and users can contact the library’s technical support team if they encounter any issues. By following these steps, FAU students and faculty members can easily access the library’s vast collection of digital resources from the comfort of their own homes.
What are the different types of library databases and journals available to FAU students and faculty members?
The FAU library provides access to a wide range of databases and journals, catering to various disciplines and subjects. These include general-purpose databases like JSTOR, EBSCO, and ProQuest, which offer a broad range of academic articles, e-books, and other resources. Additionally, the library subscribes to subject-specific databases, such as PubMed for medical research, PsycINFO for psychology, and SciFinder for chemistry and related fields. The library also provides access to online journals, including prestigious titles like The New England Journal of Medicine, Nature, and Science.
The library’s database and journal collections are constantly updated to reflect the latest research and discoveries in various fields. FAU students and faculty members can access these resources to support their academic and research endeavors. The library also provides tools and services to help users navigate and utilize these resources effectively, such as database guides, tutorials, and research assistance. By exploring the library’s databases and journals, users can stay up-to-date with the latest developments in their field, conduct in-depth research, and produce high-quality academic work.
Can I access library databases and journals using my mobile device or tablet?
Yes, FAU students and faculty members can access library databases and journals using their mobile devices or tablets. The FAU library website is optimized for mobile access, and most databases and journals are compatible with popular mobile browsers. Users can access the library’s digital resources using their device’s web browser, and some databases and journals also offer mobile apps for download. However, it’s essential to ensure that the device is connected to a secure internet network, and users should always log out of their account when finished to protect their personal and academic information.
To access library databases and journals on a mobile device or tablet, users can follow the same steps as accessing from a desktop computer. They can visit the FAU library website, log in with their FAU username and password, and browse the available databases and journals. Some databases and journals may have mobile-specific interfaces or features, such as optimized search results or simplified navigation. The library provides guidance on mobile access and troubleshooting tips to help users overcome any technical issues. By accessing library databases and journals on their mobile devices or tablets, FAU students and faculty members can stay productive and access the resources they need anytime, anywhere.
How do I troubleshoot common issues when accessing library databases and journals from home?
When accessing library databases and journals from home, FAU students and faculty members may encounter common issues such as login errors, slow loading times, or inaccessible resources. To troubleshoot these issues, users can start by checking their internet connection and ensuring that their browser is up-to-date. They should also verify that their FAU username and password are correct and not expired. If the issue persists, users can try clearing their browser cache, cookies, and history or using a different browser.
The FAU library provides technical support to help users resolve access issues. Users can contact the library’s technical support team via phone, email, or online chat, and they will be assisted in troubleshooting the problem. The library also maintains a list of known issues and troubleshooting tips on their website, which can be accessed from the library’s homepage. Additionally, users can consult the library’s database guides and tutorials for specific instructions on accessing and using various databases and journals. By following these steps, FAU students and faculty members can quickly resolve common issues and access the library’s digital resources from the comfort of their own homes.
Can I access library databases and journals from off-campus using a VPN or proxy server?
Yes, FAU students and faculty members can access library databases and journals from off-campus using a VPN or proxy server. The FAU library recommends using the university’s VPN service, which provides a secure and authenticated connection to the library’s digital resources. To access the VPN, users can download and install the VPN client software on their device, then log in with their FAU username and password. This will create a secure tunnel to the FAU network, allowing users to access library databases and journals as if they were on campus.
Using a VPN or proxy server can provide an additional layer of security and convenience when accessing library databases and journals from off-campus. However, it’s essential to note that some databases and journals may have specific requirements or restrictions when accessed through a VPN or proxy server. The library provides guidance on configuring the VPN client software and troubleshooting common issues. Users can also contact the library’s technical support team for assistance with setting up and using the VPN or proxy server. By using a VPN or proxy server, FAU students and faculty members can enjoy secure and seamless access to the library’s digital resources from anywhere.
What are the copyright and fair use guidelines for accessing and using library databases and journals?
When accessing and using library databases and journals, FAU students and faculty members must adhere to copyright and fair use guidelines. These guidelines vary depending on the specific database or journal, but in general, users are allowed to access and use the content for personal, educational, or research purposes. However, users must not reproduce, distribute, or display the content without permission from the copyright holder. The library provides guidance on copyright and fair use policies, and users can consult the database or journal’s terms and conditions for specific instructions.
The FAU library is committed to promoting copyright compliance and responsible use of digital resources. Users are encouraged to respect the intellectual property rights of authors, publishers, and creators, and to use the content in a way that is consistent with fair use principles. The library also provides resources and support to help users understand and apply copyright and fair use guidelines, such as workshops, tutorials, and online guides. By following these guidelines, FAU students and faculty members can ensure that they are using library databases and journals in a responsible and lawful manner, while also supporting the creation and dissemination of knowledge.