OpenAthens
OpenAthens is the Library's 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.
Using OpenAthens
- 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.
- Links in the Library's A-Z list of databases and in HoyaSearch also use OpenAthens when appropriate.
Moving from EZProxy to OpenAthens
OpenAthens replaces EZProxy, the Library's previous off-campus access system. If you used EZProxy, 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 old proxy string (proxy.library.georgetown.edu). 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 (see below).
More information about OpenAthens is available in our OpenAthens LibGuide.
Lean Library Extension
- Download Lean Library
- Select Georgetown University Library as your institution
- Save your settings and start your research!
If you are on a Library-subscribed database or journal website (like jstor.org), Lean Library will automatically detect the website and reconnect you through the Library's proxy server. This allows you to log in without going back to the Library’s website.
Lean Library also provides easy access to Interlibrary Loan (ILL), integration with Google Scholar, and many other features. Learn more about Lean Library in our Off-Campus Research Guide.
ProxyGU (ending Summer 2026)
ProxyGU ended summer 2026 as the Library transitioned from EZProxy to OpenAthens. We encourage users to use Lean Library (above) instead.
Library Website Links
Most links in HoyaSearch and the Library’s research guides will prompt you to log in with your NetID and password when off-campus, authenticating you as a Georgetown user and providing access to subscribed Library resources.
- HoyaSearch - books, journals, articles, and more
- Journal Finder - journals held by the Library
- A-Z Databases - list of all major Library databases
Off-Campus Research Guide
Our off-campus research guide has a wealth of tools to aid research away from Georgetown:
- Lean Library browser extension
- Google Scholar configuration for Library resources
- OpenAthens (separate research guide)
For Alumni: Off-Campus Access
Alumni have access to a limited number of resources from off-campus. For alumni in the DC area, additional Library resources are available to alumni who visit Lauinger Library in-person ("walk-in access"). Unfortunately some of our databases are restricted to current Georgetown students and faculty/staff only. If you have questions about a specific database and its access privileges, please contact Electronic Resources & Serials.
Questions? Trouble Accessing Library Resources?
Contact the Electronic Resources & Serials Unit, or consult our Library FAQ for E-Resources for more information.