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Remote Library Services

When you need or prefer to work remotely, there are many ways the Libraries can provide you with expert help and services. Be sure to check the Libraries’ website for the latest information about our hours and services.

From Off Campus

From Off Campus

Library Catalogs are available to all through the Internet. Only current UMSL Students, Faculty, and Staff are eligible to access databases and other resources from off-campus. The three means of access are:

  • Proxy Server: UMSL Students, most Faculty (Emeritus professors should use VPN), and Staff may also remotely access online resources via our Proxy Server.   If you try to connect to a database, e-book, or other online resource and you are connecting from off campus (not using the RD Gateway or VPN), the proxy server will automatically ask for your SSO ID and password.
    • Advantage: No additional software needs to be installed on your computer.
    • Disadvantage: Works with most, but not all resources.
      Some resources cannot be accessed via the proxy server.  In this case you will need to use the VPN or come to campus.
  • VPN Server: UMSL Students, Faculty and Staff may use the TritonVPN Client to access library resources. When you are connected via the VPN Server, your computer will connect to resources as if you are on campus.
    • Advantages: VPN is the most complete solution and provides reliable, secure, encrypted access. Works with nearly all resources.
    • Disadvantage: More complicated.  Software needs to be installed on your computer.
    To download the software go to: http://www.umsl.edu/technology/networking/TritonVPN/index.html. You will need your SSO ID to download and use the TritonNet AnyConnect VPN Client.
  • RD Gateway: Faculty and Staff can use the Remote Desktop (RD) Gateway option to access their office computer. ITS has more information here: http://www.umsl.edu/technology/networking/rdg/.
    • Advantages: RD Gateway can provide secure remote access which does not require the TritonVPN software.
    • Disadvantage: For remote desktop use only.

While On Campus

  • Wireless Network Access: The Thomas Jefferson and St. Louis Mercantile Libraries provide wireless internet accessibility for faculty, staff, students, and other authorized users. At this time, the wireless network is not available to the general public. Basic steps:
    1. Select the TritonNet wireless network.
    2. Open a web browser.  It should go to the TritonNet registration page.
    3. Enter the information requested and submit it.
    4. Allow your computer/device to be scanned and cleared for access.  It often helps to reboot your system at this point.
    5. If you have questions or need help, contact the Technology Support Center at (314) 516-6034, or consult their web page:TritonNet wireless.
  • Campus Computer Labs: The Library Research Commons (LRC) computer lab is closed due to the library renovation project. There are other campus computing labs available to faculty, staff, students, and other authorized users which are run by the Information Technology Services department who can orient you about the available hardware and software and assist with many software issues. Students can access library resources from other campus locations (labs, Millennium Student Center, etc.). Faculty and staff can use library resources from their office and department computers.  Check the ITS web page for more for more details and lab hours.
  • Library Computers: A few computers with restricted functionality are available in the lobby and elsewhere in the building. A limited number of these are available for use by the general public; current UMSL students, faculty and staff have priority.  Please ask at the desk if you have any questions.