Frequently Asked Questions

Who can access Smith databases from off-campus?

• Current Smith students, faculty, and staff can access databases from off-campus using their Smith Network username and password. If you don't remember your Smith Network username and password or have questions about getting one, contact the ITS User Support Center at (413) 585-4487.
• Five College students taking a class at Smith can access Smith databases from off-campus using their Smith network username and password.

Which databases are available from off-campus?

Most of the databases listed on the Research Databases A-Z page are available; restricted databases are so noted.

Note: You must use the links on the SC Libraries' website to access subscription databases in order to be routed through the Smith College proxy server for authentication.

How do I access the databases from off-campus?

Go to the Research Databases A-Z page and click on a database title link. Type in your Smith Network username and password when prompted. You will then be able to access any available database until you close your web browser or the database connection times out.

Note: You must use the links on the SC Libraries' website to access subscription databases in order to be routed through the Smith College proxy server for authentication.

Why are there access restrictions on some databases?

Two reasons: Some databases have licensing restrictions that permit in-library use only. Others are CD-ROM databases which require specific installation setups on your PC (almost all of these are DOS/Windows-based CD-ROMs and do not work on a Mac.)

Can I access Smith's databases if I'm JYA or out of the country?

• Most of Smith’s online databases can be accessed from foreign countries. Exceptions include: all FirstSearch databases (WorldCat, ArticleFirst, etc.)
• Some users have reported problems with their browsers “timing out” before connecting through the proxy server. It is likely this problem is caused by network traffic and the number of nodes that have to be passed through. There are no settings on our end to increase, and any settings affecting timeouts would need to be adjusted on the user’s end.
• There have also been reports of problems because of firewall restrictions placed on computers at the access site. If this is the case, please try to access from a home computer or a public library.

Can I access Smith's databases while on a site placement?

We have had reports of problems from students attempting to access from their work sites due to firewall restrictions placed on the computers at the work site. If this is the case, please try to access from a home computer or a public library.

Can I access online resources at the other Five Colleges?

Each of the Five Colleges (Smith, Amherst, Hampshire, Mount Holyoke and UMass/Amherst) maintains separate online subscriptions which can only be accessed from that campus. Off-campus access for each institution is limited to the current students, faculty, and staff of that institution.

How can I get help or ask questions about off-campus access?

• Call the Neilson Library reference desk at (413) 585-2960
• Use chat reference during open hours
• Use Ask a Librarian to submit your question by email
• For problems with your Smith Network username and password, please contact the ITS Help Desk, by email 4its@smith.edu, or phone (413) 585-4487.