Using the databases available through the IUB Libraries, why can't I access some of the resources?
On this page:
- General problems
- Off-campus access
- Accessing e-resources via IUCAT
- Database access levels
- Access to a specific article
- Browser errors
- Additional information
General problems
If you have trouble accessing the Indiana University Bloomington Libraries electronic resources, consider the possible reasons below. If you don't find a solution, complete the Report a Problem form. If you have additional questions, Ask a Librarian.
The Libraries' Getting Connected! web page is also a good source for help with accessing electronic resources.
If you are new to the IUB Libraries, you may wish to consult the resources in Where can I find information on how to do library research at IUB?
Off-campus access
If you are using a non-IU Internet service provider, your ability to access some library resources may be affected; see At IUB and IUPUI, what should I do if I'm having difficulty accessing library resources?
Accessing e-resources via IUCAT
If you are using IUCAT from off campus and wish to access a particular electronic resource by clicking the link next to "URL:", you may first need to log in at Welcome to IUCAT.
If the system will not accept your username and passphrase and you have a valid IU Network ID, see At IUB and IUPUI, what should I do if I'm having difficulty accessing library resources?
Database access levels
The licensing agreement for a particular database may restrict access to on-campus users or workstations. Access is controlled by your computer's IP address. When accessing databases through the Libraries web site, to the left of each database's name, you will see the following icons denoting access levels:
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Globe icon: Resource available without restriction |
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Lock icon: Resource available to authorized IUB users (on or off campus) |
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IUB icon: Resource available to users on IUB campus only |
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Workstation icon: Resource available at public workstations in libraries only |
Access to a specific article
If you cannot access the full text of an article through a particular database, you have several options:
- Search for the journal title (not the title of the article) on the
IUB Libraries' Find
Information page. When you find the journal, make sure the
description of the coverage of the journal (displayed on the web page
with the journal title) includes the month and year of the article you
need. To connect, click the title.
- Search IUCAT to see if you can access the
material in the IU libraries. If you are connecting from outside the
Bloomington campus, log in through the
catalog and electronic resourcesoption.
- If you are sure you cannot access the material in any other way, you can also try to obtain a copy via Document Delivery Service/Interlibrary Loan; see Interlibrary Loan (ILL).
Consult the Herman B Wells Library Reference Department if you have questions about locating or accessing a particular text.
Browser errors
You must have cookies enabled in your browser to access many IUB Libraries electronic resources, to use electronic reserves, and to see all of the options in IUCAT. To enable cookies, see the "Viewing and Controlling Cookies" section in What are cookies?
Additional information
- In some cases, you need to have Adobe Reader installed
on your computer. If you're affiliated with IU, you can download it
free of charge from IUware. It is
also free from Adobe's Reader web site.
- If IUB is not your home campus, but you need access to IUB-only resources for a class you are teaching or taking, see If I teach or take classes at multiple campuses, how can I get access to electronic library resources?
Last modified on January 13, 2011.










