If you regularly use Georgetown University Library resources from home or other off-campus locations, you may notice some changes to links in the Library’s A–Z Databases list, Research Guides, and HoyaSearch.
The Library is in the process of migrating to OpenAthens, a new system for off-campus authentication. OpenAthens allows Georgetown researchers to access the Library’s licensed journals, databases, and e-books directly on publisher and vendor websites, even when not connected to the Georgetown network. Over time, OpenAthens will replace the Library’s current proxy server (EZproxy). We will be fully transitioning away from EZproxy in summer 2026.
OpenAthens offers several benefits. 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—just select Georgetown University Library from the list. On many sites, OpenAthens supports single sign-on (SSO), meaning you may only need to log in once for a smoother research experience. In addition, as some publishers move away from IP address-based authentication, OpenAthens helps ensure continued access to Library-subscribed content.
The Library expects this transition to be largely seamless, but you may need to take a few steps:
- Update saved links and bookmarks. Please update any saved bookmarks or links in Canvas or elsewhere that include the Library’s proxy string (proxy.library.georgetown.edu). Proxy-based links will continue to work into the summer. Instructions for updating links are on our OpenAthens LibGuide.
- Review redirection tools. If you use tools such as Zotero or ProxyGU that automatically route links through the proxy server, these redirection features will eventually stop working. (Zotero’s citation management features are not affected.) We recommend ProxyGU users switch to Lean Library.
- Check vendor accounts. If you have personalized settings or saved content with Library vendors such as EBSCO or ProQuest, you may need to merge or re-create these settings after the transition. Specifically, if you have a ProQuest E-Book Central “Bookshelf” account, please take steps to export or prepare for merging your account before May 15.
More details and step-by-step guidance are available in the OpenAthens LibGuide:
guides.library.georgetown.edu/OpenAthens
If you have questions or encounter access issues, please contact the Electronic Resources & Serials Unit.