How can I access UTSW library resources from off campus?

Published On - June 4, 2025

Emily Harris

Accessing the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center (UTSW) library resources from off campus is a crucial aspect of continuing research, study, and clinical work, especially for students, faculty, and healthcare professionals who may not always be on site. Fortunately, UTSW has established secure and reliable methods to ensure that essential resources such as journals, databases, and e-books remain accessible remotely.

Remote access to the UTSW Library’s vast array of digital content is facilitated through authentication systems that confirm your affiliation with UTSW. This ensures not only the protection of licensed materials but also streamlines the connection process for users located outside the university network.

Step-by-Step Guide to Accessing UTSW Library Off Campus

There are multiple ways UTSW affiliates can connect to the library resources while off campus. Below is a detailed overview:

  1. Use the EZproxy System
    EZproxy is the most straightforward method for accessing library content. When you attempt to access a licensed database or journal from outside the UTSW network, you will be prompted to log in using your UTSW credentials.

    • Visit the UTSW Library website.
    • Search for the desired resource (e.g., PubMed, UpToDate, or a journal title).
    • Click on the link; you will automatically be redirected to the login page if off campus.
    • Enter your UTSW assigned username and password (not your email address).
  2. Login via the VPN (Virtual Private Network)
    For some resources or internal systems, using UTSW’s VPN may be necessary:

    • Download and install the VPN client from the UTSW Information Resources site.
    • Log in using your UTSW credentials to create a secure connection to the UTSW network.
    • Once connected, navigate to the library site and access resources as if you were on campus.

What Resources Are Available Remotely?

Once authenticated, remote users have access to nearly all the library’s digital offerings, which include:

  • Full-text journal articles across a wide range of disciplines
  • Clinical decision support tools such as UpToDate and DynaMed
  • Medical and scientific databases such as MEDLINE, CINAHL, Scopus, and Cochrane Library
  • E-books and electronic textbooks available through platforms like ClinicalKey and AccessMedicine
  • Research tools including EndNote Online access and citation management guides

Consistently, UTSW Library staff ensure that these licensed resources remain updated and accessible from anywhere, allowing members of the UTSW community to work efficiently no matter their location.

Troubleshooting Access Issues

If you experience difficulties when accessing the library remotely, consider the following common scenarios and solutions:

  • You are using a bookmark that doesn’t include the EZproxy prefix.
    Always access resources via links provided on the UTSW Library’s website.
  • Your login credentials are not recognized.
    Make sure you are using your UTSW ID and not your full email address.
  • VPN is required for specific internal tools or services.
    Try connecting through the VPN if EZproxy does not grant access to a particular resource.
  • The system times out or the page is inaccessible.
    Try clearing your browser cache or use a different web browser.

Assistance and Support

UTSW’s health sciences librarians are available to assist with login problems, resource navigation, or specialized research inquiries. You can reach the library’s support team through:

Whether you are conducting literature reviews for a research project or preparing clinical documentation, off-campus access to the UTSW Library ensures that high-quality information remains at your fingertips. Maintaining a clear understanding of how to connect remotely fosters a seamless workflow and supports academic and professional success.

For the most up-to-date information on access procedures, visit the Library Services section of the UTSW website or reach out directly to a library liaison for personalized guidance.