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One Login to Rule Them All? Meet OpenAthens

Stephanie Ow
2 days ago
2 min read


Ever found yourself switching between platforms, navigating different login screens, and wondering why accessing an article is more complicated than finding it?


That's exactly why NIE Library has rolled out OpenAthens, a new authentication system designed to make accessing subscribed electronic resources smoother, more reliable, and far less frustrating.


The Benefits of Moving to OpenAthens


OpenAthens provides a simpler and more reliable way to access subscribed e-resources, including e-journals, databases, and e-books.


Previously, users had to navigate separate authentication systems across NTU and NIE, which could involve different account formats and cause occasional access issues. OpenAthens streamlines the process by bringing authentication into a single, more seamless experience.


Key Benefits at a Glance

 

Single Sign-On (SSO) with Microsoft 365: NIE students can now sign in using their Microsoft 365 Education account (username@e.ntu.edu.sg), while NIE staff can continue using their Microsoft 365 network account (username@niestaff.cluster.nie.edu.sg).


A Unified Experience Across NTU & NIE: OpenAthens consolidates previously separate NTU and NIE authentication systems into a single, integrated login experience. Whether you're accessing resources from NTU or NIE, the process is now more seamless and consistent.

*Please note that some NTU-licensed resources remain available only through computers located in NTU Libraries.


Greater Reliability: OpenAthens provides a more stable connection to e-journals, databases, and e-books, helping to reduce access disruptions.



Logging In with OpenAthens


Step 1: Access an e-resource

  • Searching via the Library Portal and selecting a database link from your search results, or

  • Visiting the Databases page and choosing a database directly.


Step 2: Sign in & select account

Then, on the Microsoft Login Page: Enter your email address:

Microsoft 365 login page
Microsoft 365 login page

On the OpenAthens Login Selection Page: Select the first option: "Log in with your NTU/NIE Account".

OpenAthens login page
OpenAthens login page

The video below shows how to access an electronic journal article by performing a library portal search




Troubleshooting Common Login Issues


  • The OpenAthens login page doesn't appear

Your browser may have automatically signed you in using a personal Microsoft account. Sign out of that account and sign in again using your NTU/NIE account.


  • You encounter an error message during sign-in

Try clearing your browser cache, opening an Incognito/InPrivate window, or using a different browser.

  • You're prompted to select an institution

Some platforms may display an Institutional Login screen and ask you to choose between 'Nanyang Technological University (NTU)' and 'National Institute of Education (NIE)'. If both options are available, select NIE. If 'National Institute of Education (NIE)' is not listed, then select 'Nanyang Technological University (NTU)'


With OpenAthens, accessing NIE Library's e-journals, databases, and e-books is now more streamlined, reliable, and convenient, whether you're on campus or working remotely.


For more information on OpenAthens and other full-text access tools, visit the OpenAthens Guide. If you encounter any access issues, please contact NIE Library at libris@nie.edu.sg.


Happy researching!


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