During summer 2026 the Library moved most e-books, e-journals, and databases to OpenAthens, a new authentication system. OpenAthens replaces EZproxy, the Library’s former proxy server. If you’ve used Library resources from off-campus, you have likely already used OpenAthens. If you use an EZproxy link, it will automatically redirect to OpenAthens for authentication and access.
OpenAthens offers several advantages for Georgetown researchers. Many publisher websites now include an “Institutional login” or “Select my institution” option. With OpenAthens, you can use these buttons on many (though not all) journal and e-book platforms by selecting Georgetown University Library from the list. On many sites, OpenAthens also supports single sign-on (SSO), allowing you to log in once and move more smoothly between resources. In addition, as some publishers discontinue IP address-based authentication, OpenAthens helps ensure continued access to Library-subscribed content.
This transition is largely seamless, but you may need to take a few steps depending on your circumstances:
- Revise saved links and bookmarks. Please update any saved bookmarks, syllabi, or links in Canvas or elsewhere that include the Library’s proxy string (proxy.library.georgetown.edu). Proxied links will redirect to OpenAthens for several months, but will eventually stop working.
- Review redirection tools. Browser tools like ProxyGU or Zotero’s proxy redirector will no longer function for OpenAthens links. (Note: Zotero’s core citation management features are completely unaffected.) We recommend using Lean Library as an alternative.
- Report link issues. If you encounter a broken link or the redirect page doesn’t take you where you expect, please let us know by contacting us.
More details and step-by-step guidance are available in the OpenAthens LibGuide:
https://guides.library.georgetown.edu/OpenAthens
If you have questions or encounter access issues, please contact the Electronic Resources and Serials Unit.