UC Berkeley Library

You can still access the UC Berkeley Library’s services and resources during the closure. Here’s how.

Using the Library during COVID-19

During the pandemic, many of our services are being offered in new ways. To find the latest information on course reserves, book returns, 24/7 online help, and more, visit our COVID-19 portal, which provides more up-to-date information than the text below.

Connect from off campus

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Instructions for Melvyl

If you are off campus, UC Berkeley students, faculty and staff may access licensed materials via:

  • Library Proxy
    • When you click on a resource link found in OskiCat, via "Start your search" on the Library home page, Databases A-Z or eJournals (UC eLinks), you will be prompted to authenticate. You may authenticate via CalNet, or via your Patron ID / PIN.
    • When you click on a resource link found via a search engine or a non-UCB Library webpage, you will need to use a browser bookmarklet to access the licensed resource.
  • VPN (Virtual Private Network)
    Download the campus VPN client to access licensed article databases, eBooks and eJournals. To access Library resources pick the Library Access and Full Tunnel option.
    • These resources require VPN for off-campus use:
  • Instructions for Melvyl - There are two ways to access licensed materials found via Melvyl:
    1. Install the EZproxy bookmarklet in your browser.
      1. Search Melvyl.
      2. When you receive the “Authentication Required” window click on your EZproxy bookmarklet.
      3. Authenticate via CalNet or your Patron ID / PIN.
    2. Install and turn on the VPN.
      1. Configure the VPN for Library Access and Full tunnel.
      2. Search Melvyl.
      3. You will see all of the licensed resources. You will not be prompted to authenticate. You will not need to click on the Sign-in link.