OpenAthens
OpenAthens is a Single Sign On (SSO) service that we rolled out for our researchers in April 2024.
What is OpenAthens Single Sign On (SSO)?
A Single Sign On (SSO) service allows users to have a single username and password to login to multiple sites. OpenAthens is one 'brand' of SSO. It is run by JISC, which is a UK non-profit that focuses on higher education and technology. OpenAthens is popular with higher education and cultural heritage institutions.
Where can I login with my OpenAthens SSO acount?
We have implemented OpenAthens SSO for the Folger's library systems and library subscription databases. These include:
- the catalog
- your request account (for requesting items in the Reading Room or for Virtual Reference)
- subscription databases that require a login for access
On the back end of our library systems, we have linked researchers' OpenAthens accounts to their existing accounts for the catalog, the request system, and subscription library databses. That is, the OpenAthens SSO does not change anything in your existing accounts. You will still be able to see your past reading room requests, etc.
If you are affiliated with a university, you have likely seen SSO accounts already, since you can probably use one username and password at your institution to login to most of the systems and sites there. Outside of universities, you may have encountered SSO if you have ever used an Amazon, Google, or Facebook account to login to websites that are not Amazon, Google, or Facebook.
Does this work for all Folger sites?
No. We have only implemented OpenAthens SSO for registered researchers to use library services. If you have an account on the Folger website for ordering event tickets, please continue to use your existing username and password to login. If you have a Teacher Member account to access Folger Teaching, please continue to use your existing username and password to login.
How can I tell if I should login with an OpenAthens account?
The Folger's OpenAthens login screen looks like this: