Database Access

How do I get access to the databases from off campus?
What if the database denies me access?

How do I get access to the databases from off campus?

In the Research column on the library webpage (www.csp.edu/library), you can either reach our full list of available databases by clicking on the Articles (Databases: A-Z, by subject) link or search multiple databases by using QuickSearch (via BearHunt). You will be asked to log in.  Use the same username and password that you would use to access the on-campus computers (i.e. your network username and password). If you are having trouble, try using your L# as the password. If you are still having trouble, the I.T. Help Desk can help you reset your network password.



What if the database denies me access?

There are a few circumstances that may cause problems when trying to access databases from off campus:
1. Accessing a database from a business may be a problem as some businesses have firewalls that block databases.
2. Accessing a database with a slow internet connection may be a problem because some internet connections may be too slow to access the database before timing out.
3. Accessing the database or articles from a location other than the CSP library website may be a problem because the database may not recognize you as a CSP user/CSP subscriber.

In the event that you are denied access to one of the databases, please contact the library for assistance.  It will be very helpful if you have a few pieces of information (see questions below) with you at the time of your call:
1. Are you experiencing the problem with just one database or with more than one?
2. How long has this problem occurred?
3. Do you see the Concordia University login screen as pictured above, or do you see the database/vendor name on the login screen?
4. What messages, if any, do you get when the login fails?
5. What did you do step by step?

Troubleshooting Access Difficulties