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NOVA Online: Troubleshooting Library Links: Home

Library link not working? Try the steps on this guide!

Library Service Updates - NOVA Online

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Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How do I access library resources off-campus?

A: When you click on a link to one of our electronic resources (articles, eBooks, streaming video, etc.) and you are off-campus, you should see a "Virginia Community College" secure login screen. Enter your current MyNOVA login information to be authenticated and redirected to the resource you are trying to access.

Q: I'm getting a message that my login failed and my username/password does not match. What should I do?

A: Try to login again and be sure you are typing your login information correctly. If you need to reset your password you can click here.

Q: I am trying to access a library resource, I have logged in, but I am still not able to get access. What should I do?

A: Connection difficulties may have a number of root causes, including issues on the user’s end, issues with the network, or issues on the provider or vendor’s end. Depending on the specific nature of the problem you are experiencing, here are some basic things you can try:

  • Try a different browser – for example, if Chrome shows errors, try Firefox or Safari.
  • Clear your browser’s cache and cookies.
  • Disable any ad-blockers or other browser extensions that may disrupt authentication.
  • Check that you have cookies enabled.
  • If you are using a link, go directly through the library website, manually find the resource, and try to access it.

Q: I have tried all the above steps but I still cannot access the resource. What should I do?

A: Go to the Chat With a Librarian page to reach out to us. When describing your issue, make sure to give us as much information as possible, such as:

  • Are you on-campus or off-campus?
  • Type of device.
  • Operating system.
  • Browser.
  • Name and type of resource you are trying to access.
  • Which specific path you are following to get to that resource.
  • The exact error message. (Include screenshots and/or URLs if possible!)
  • Is the problem limited to one specific resource or is it all electronic resources?
  • What steps have you already taken to troubleshoot?

24/7 Help

For individual research help, schedule an appointment to meet with a librarian.