For Remote Access to Library e-Resources, RIP VPN?
USC Libraries' proxy server makes off-campus use of online research databases as simple as logging in to Web Mail.By Hugh McHarg
How does a USC researcher studying salmon migration find recent, full-text dissertations on the topic while traveling along Oregon’s Snake River? Until now, the answer was the virtual private network (VPN) client, an application that students, faculty and staff sometimes find difficult to configure and use.
Now, students and faculty working off-campus, distance-learners and those pursuing far-flung research can enjoy access to USC Libraries’ electronic resources—including those of the Health Sciences Libraries—as seamlessly as anyone working on the USC campus.
The proxy server initiative, currently in open beta release, makes it possible. “The proxy server makes a difference for everyone,” said Todd Grappone, associate executive director of information development and management for USC Libraries. “It can help clinical faculty working at HSC or a grad student traveling in Hong Kong. Access is easier all around.”
When USC Libraries or the Health Sciences Libraries license an electronic resource like the ProQuest full-text dissertation database, the publisher grants access to a range of Internet Protocol (IP) addresses representing computers on the USC network. That used to mean that anyone working from other locations had to use the VPN to be authenticated properly as a USC user.
The new proxy server now handles the authentication process. A user logs in with the standard USC user name and password that work for services like Web mail. The proxy server then sends the valid IP address to the publisher and pushes the content out to the user’s computer, eliminating the need to set up a separate VPN connection.
When the full release arrives, proxy server access will become easier still by automatically prompting users to log in and maintaining authentication throughout each research session.
“The VPN is still a valuable tool,” said Grappone. “But making everyday users configure the client just to use library services had become an unnecessary hurdle, especially when everyone on campus can get to them easily through the library Web site.”
The project is intended to support the drive for ever-improving customer service. “We focus a great deal on acquiring the right electronic research materials, but that’s just the beginning,” said Marje Schuetze-Coburn, dean of USC Libraries. “Our electronic collections are an important part of our mission, and we want the user’s experience online to be as smooth as asking a question at Doheny’s front desk.”
“This will be an especially welcome solution to USC users working in non-USC facilities, such as the Los Angeles County Hospital+USC Medical Center, where access has been difficult due to institutional firewalls,” added Bill Clintworth, director of the Health Sciences Libraries.
The proxy server began as a USC Libraries information technology project under the direction of Grappone and in collaboration with the Norris Medical Library and Tom Katsouleas’ ITS group. Grappone continues to lead the proxy server through its beta phase.
Although the entire suite of e-resources is not yet available through the proxy server, many key databases are accessible. The list of available titles will grow as the full release approaches.
Students, faculty and staff with a USC user name and password can use the beta version now here.
Note: Use either the Remote Access Portal or the VPN for access to library resources. Please exit the VPN before using the Remote Access Portal.