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OpenAthens

Information about and tools for using OpenAthens for authorization.

How to Log In - Current Students, Faculty, and Staff

Use links to resources found in AU Library Search, the A-Z Databases list, or Subject Guides. You will usually get the familiar AU login screen prompting you for your email address:

You can visit some platforms on the open web and look for the following:

  • 'Login through your institution'
  • 'OpenAthens'
  • 'Federated login'
  • 'Institutional Login'
  • 'Sign In'

Though the navigation varies across platforms, you may be asked to search for your institution, American University Library, or to enter your email address.

DO NOT use the option to 'Sign in with your OpenAthens account', as this option only applies to guest users.

Sign In by Finding Your Institution

In a few cases, links to resources will land on an OpenAthens sign in page:

Search for 'American University' in the 'Find your institution' search box and select American University Library:

Select 'American University Library' and you will be taken to the familiar AU Sign In page:

How to Log In - On-site Visitors

On-site visitors who are not current AU students, faculty, or staff should visit the Circulation Desk where they will be instructed to visit a specific page and be given OpenAthens login credentials to authenticate.

See the 'Guests' tab in this guide for more information.