Over the past several months, Himmelfarb Library staff have heard from users experiencing difficulty accessing the Library's online collections. The access issue seems to stem from the use of multiple authentications on one computer. For example, a user might access a clinical systems like the GW MFA's EHR system with their MFA credentials, and also regularly login to access Himmelfarb Library resources via their GW credentials. In some cases, the user's non-GW (i.e. GW MFA, Children's Hospital, etc.) login is automatically submitted to GW's single sign-on system rather than the user's @gwu.edu account information.
To support users while this issue is investigated, Himmelfarb Library has developed instructions to guide users and address this access issue so they can access Himmelfarb's online collections easily.
Option #1: Use one web browser for most work and reserve a second web browser for logging into Himmelfarb Library and other GW functions. This option works best on a computer that you use regularly, as you are able to have the browser 'remember' you.
- Open the web browser selected for Himmelfarb/GW, then clear the browser's history and cookies.
- A prompt may appear at the top of the screen asking the user to login to a non-GW system; log off/deactivate this function.
- Access Himmelfarb Library webpage (http://himmelfarb.gwu.edu) and select the database, e-text, or e-journal which you would like to access; the resource should display automatically.
Option #2: Open an 'incognito' browser window. This option works best on a computer that you don't use regularly, as you'll need to sign-in and complete dual authentication each time you open an incognito window.
- Open an incognito browser window:
- Chrome: click on three stacked dots in upper right corner of window, then select 'New Incognito window'
- Edge: click on three horizontal dots in upper right corner of window, then select 'New InPrivate window'
- Safari: from File menu, select 'New Private Window'
- Internet Explorer: click on gear menu in upper right corner of window, then select Safety followed by InPrivate Browsing
- Mozilla Firefox: click on three stacked horizontal lines in upper right corner of window, then select New Private Window
- Access Himmelfarb Library webpage (http://himmelfarb.gwu.edu) and select the database, e-text, or e-journal which you would like to access; the resource should display automatically.
Remember, anytime you experience an access issue or are having difficulty finding what you need, Himmelfarb's library staff is here to help. You can reach us via instant message, phone, email, or text - remember to Ask A Librarian!
