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Harris Library Orientation

Are you new to the Harris Library? This guide will help you become familiar with our resources.

Wireless Network

The CWRU Libraries subscribe to licensed online resources, including ebooks, ejournals and research databases. You can access these items through the wired  network and the CaseWireless wifi network on campus. Off campus, you can authenticate through OpenAthens, and in some rare cases, use VPN.

When you are on campus, you can connect to either wireless network:

  • CaseGuest (free public wireless network) or
  • CaseWireless (requires log-on with your CWRU network user ID & password)

If you log in to CaseWireless, you will have access to all licensed resources.

Accessing Online Library Resources with OpenAthens

OpenAthens is the library’s authentication system and has replaced VPN for off-campus access to most resources. It requires no action other than signing in through Case Western Reserve University’s Single Sign-On.

With OpenAthens, members of the campus community can access nearly all of the library’s electronic resources on any device from anywhere without multiple logins or the need to log into the VPN.

During a session, users will need to log in to access all library resources (even when on the campus wired network or the “Case Wireless” network). After they are logged in the first time, access should continue even if they change from one resource to another as long as they do not close their browser window.

Virtual Private Networking (VPN)

There are only a few library resources that require you to install Cisco’s AnyConnect Virtual Private Network (VPN) software / mobile app on your device. You will also need to install the Duo Mobile two-factor authentication system on your cell phone (or set up your land line, if you don’t have a cell phone).

Instructions on installing this software can be found at:

Also, the video below offers detailed instructions on installing the Duo Mobile app. If you run into any problems during your installation or log-on, please contact the [U]Tech Help Desk (open 24 / 7):