Off-Campus Online Access to Library Resources

The online catalog OPALOhioLINK, general information, and some services and resources are freely available to everyone. However, most research databases and electronic journals have access restrictions that require that you be a current Otterbein student, faculty, emeritus faculty or staff member.

Alumni and community members may join the Friends of Library to obtain borrowing privileges at all OhioLINK libraries. Members of the Friends of the Library do not receive access to most databases and e-journals from off-campus due to the license agreements with electronic resource vendors. However, community members may use the computers in the Reference area on the 1st floor of the Courtright Memorial Library to access most library resources.

What Is Needed for Off-Campus Authentication?

Authentication for off-campus access requires:

  • Your Otterbein network username and password, if you are accessing the databases from the Otterbein library’s home page.

    Your Otterbein username is your Otterbein e-mail address and the password you chose when you activated your account.

  • Your cardinal card number (16 digit number at bottom of cardinal card OR your Otterbein ID number including the A) if you are accessing the databases through OhioLINK Databases Login. (Students, faculty and staff only)

    When you click on one of the database links, you will be asked to identify your institution, and then you’ll be asked for your name and the 16 digit number at bottom of cardinal card OR your Otterbein ID number including the A that is shown on your Cardinal Card. To get a cardinal card, please visit the Cardinal Card office which is located inside the front doors of the campus center.

Troubleshooting Tips for Remote Access

  • Be sure your browser supports cookies and is enabled to accept them, or answer “yes” if you are prompted to accept a cookie. Your browser must accept cookies for the connection to the desired database to occur.
  • Unless certain ports are opened on the firewall, it will block you from accessing OhioLINK databases. See the list of required ports. Contact the network administrator of your business or organization. You may not be able to access library databases from behind a firewall.
  • Some of the research databases run on JavaScript. Be sure your browser supports JavaScript and that you have it configured to be used.
  • Some database vendors restrict use to a limited number of simultaneous users. If you see such an error, wait a few minutes and try again.

Mobile Access

  • Be sure your browser supports cookies and is enabled to accept them, or answer “yes” if you are prompted to accept a cookie. Your browser must accept cookies for the connection to the desired database to occur. Check your browser now.
  • Unless certain ports are opened on the firewall, it will block you from accessing OhioLINK databases. See the list of required ports. Contact the network administrator of your business or organization. You may not be able to access library databases from behind a firewall.
  • Some of the research databases run on JavaScript. Be sure your browser supports JavaScript and that you have it configured to be used.
  • Some database vendors restrict use to a limited number of simultaneous users. If you see such an error, wait a few minutes and try again.
  • If the Otterbein server is down, you can access some databases from OhioLINK. See OhioLINK Remote Authentication Help for more information on how to access these databases.

Need More Help?

If you have trouble connecting from off-campus, call one of the following numbers:

  • 614-823-1060 (students)
  • 614-823-1747 (faculty, emeritus faculty, staff)

For other questions or issues accessing any of the library services from off campus, click the Ask Me tab on the right-hand margin of any library page.

Please see the Library’s full Schedule of Operations for additional information.

Contact the Library

138 West Main Street.
Westerville, OH 43081
614-823-1215
library@otterbein.edu

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