If you are not a current MSU student, staff, or faculty member, please see our Authorized Users page to determine how you may use our resources.

If you're having trouble accessing the library’s online resources from off-campus (e.g., hitting paywalls, encountering error messages, etc.), try the following solutions:

  1. Access resources directly from the library's website so you're prompted to login.
  2. Disconnect from the campus VPN.
  3. Try clearing your browser's cache.
  4. Use a different browser.
  5. Make sure everything is updated.
  6. There could be a limited number of users.
  7. Check the status of the resource to make sure there isn't a larger or already known issue.
  8. It's possible that the library does not subscribe to the resource you're trying to access.

Access resources directly from the library's website

The most reliable way to access our resources from off campus is to start your search at the library's homepage. When you click on links from the library’s site, you’ll be prompted to log in with your NetID and password, ensuring seamless access to our resources.

Once logged in, your browser will remember your session, allowing you to access other library resources (even those you find on Google or other websites) without needing to log in repeatedly during your session.

Disconnect from the campus VPN

We currently do not recommend using the campus VPN to access library resources, as it can cause an issue known as “split tunneling,” which blocks access to certain resources. If you're connected to the VPN, try disconnecting and then accessing the resource again.

Clear your browser's cache

Sometimes, your browser stores outdated information that can interfere with logging in. Try clearing your browser’s cache and then attempt to access the resource again. You can find instructions for clearing your cache in the browsers below:

Try a different browser

Some resources may not function properly in certain browsers, or your current browser settings may be causing issues. If you're having trouble, try switching to a different browser (e.g., try Firefox if you're using Chrome) and attempt to access the resource again.

Ensure everything is updated

Outdated browsers or plugins can cause access problems. Check if your browser or plugins need updates and install any available updates. Instructions for checking and updating your browser are listed below:

Check for user limits

Some resources have a limit on the number of users who can access them at the same time. If you encounter access issues, check the database’s description in the A-Z Database List to see if the resource has user restrictions and, if so, how many users can access it simultaneously.

Check the resource status

It’s possible that the resource you're trying to access is experiencing a larger technical issue. You can check the status of many library resources through Is It Down Right Now? to see if there are any known outages or service interruptions.

Verify the library has an active subscription

While the MSU Library offers access to hundreds of resources, we don't have access to everything! If you've tried all of the above methods, and you're still unsure if the library might have access to the resource, please reach out to us, and we will investigate the issue further or check out these options for alternative access to try and obtain a copy of the resource you're looking for.