University of Botswana Library is in the process of transitioning to a new electronic resource authentication system. If you have ever tried to access a journal article, eBook, or database from off-campus, you have used an authentication system to access the material. The old system, WAM, is being replaced by a new system called OpenAthens that is integrated with Google. This guide will explain what OpenAthens is and how users can create links that work with OpenAthens.

OpenAthens

OpenAthens is a cloud-based single sign-on system that allows users to access electronic resources such as journal articles, ebooks, and databases at the University of Botswana Library. We've integrated OpenAthens with Google to sign in through your University of Botswana account.

WAM

WAM is a self-hosted proxy server that allows users to access electronic resources at the University of Botswana Library. WAM authenticates users and routes their traffic to publishers' websites through an on-campus IP address to access electronic resources.

This is the screen you may see when accessing resources.  You will find your institution by typing University of Botswana in the "Find your institution" search box:

If you see this screen, UB faculty, staff, and students will use their University email login and password when accessing Library resources from off-campus.

You can create OpenAthens links that will allow off-campus users to access electronic resources that the University of Botswana provides access to.

1. Enter the name of your institution (University of Botswana).
2. Enter the URL of the resource you want to link to.
3. Test the link to make sure it works as expected.

Type "University of Botswana" (example):

Next, paste your URL into the box that you are trying to connect to.  Example displays a link to Critical Care for Postgraduate Trainees.  Once generated, copy the link and paste into a browser.

If you are a faculty or staff member at the University of Botswana, you may have to create links to electronic resources for course materials. OpenAthens use redirector links to route users to electronic resources.

If you are a faculty or staff member at the University of Botswana, you may have to create links to electronic resources for course materials. OpenAthens use redirector links to route users to electronic resources.