MRU Library is transitioning to OpenAthens to facilitate a secure and efficient sign-in process for accessing digital resources such as ebooks, journals, videos, and data. OpenAthens provides:

• Secure Single Sign-On: You can log in to access resources from the library or directly from  publisher websites.
• Persistent Authentication: Ensures access continuity for up to 8 hours across different publishers’ platforms without re-authentication (this experience may vary depending on different settings) .

Some existing links (those with the word libproxy in the URL) will stop working immediately, while others will continue to function during the transition period, until June 24, 2024. Supports are in place to ensure stable access to course materials during and after the transition process.

What do faculty need to do?

The implementation of OpenAthens changes the syntax of some library links, meaning that older links may no longer function.

1.  Test your links:

• It is always good practice to test your links regularly to make sure they work. Although not mandatory, testing updated links from off-campus (or via VPN or mobile data) can help confirm their functionality for remote access.
• Test links in D2L and other course materials (handouts, course outlines or other documents linked in D2L)

2. Update links in D2L and other course materials:

To update non-functioning or outdated links:

• Use the permalink to a LibrarySearch record
  • Simplest method that works for almost all library resources and takes users to a familiar platform.
  • Please note: Not all library resources are in LibrarySearch. If this is the case, retrieve a permalink directly from the database. 
• Use the permalink from the database: 
  • Enables direct linking to a resource (and sometimes to a chapter or timestamp within the resource).
  • Please note: These database links may be called permalinks, stable URLs, or persistent links
• D2L Link updating Request Form: Complete the form to request that ADC and Library staff update your links in D2L.
• Helpful practice: Provide additional information about your new links 
  • Please provide as much information as possible about the resource you are linking to (e.g. a full citation, or at least title and author) so that students can still track it down if there is an issue with the link in future.

3. Update Zotero connector to remove automatically applied libproxy

• If you have this extension installed, update the options to remove proxies, otherwise you may get directed to an error message when you click on a link. Follow these instructions.

4. Seek additional support:

• Faculty can reach out for assistance through various channels including the Library Service desk, chat, text message, or the 'Report a Problem' form available in each LibrarySearch record.

The library is dedicated to supporting faculty during this transition to ensure academic resources remain accessible with minimal disruption. Please reach out for any clarification or concerns with link updates or access issues.