Answered By: Trillian Hosticka
Last Updated: Mar 27, 2026     Views: 138

Because of licensing agreements with the vendors, off-Grounds access to databases, eBooks, videos, etc. is restricted to current UVA students, faculty, and staff members. We invite members of the community to come view these materials at the library using one of our public computers or on a personal device using the UVA Guest wi-fi.  

Here are some free alternative research sources that do not require a UVA log-in: 

Open Educational Resources (OER): This guide has links to a wide variety of free academic materials such as free online textbooks, eBooks, etc. https://guides.lib.virginia.edu/oer 

Local Libraries: You may want to contact your local library. Many of them have expanded access to their subscription database, and most have reference staff who can help their patrons navigate the resources available to them. If you are in Charlottesville, Albemarle, or several of the surrounding counties, our local library can be found a https://jmrl.org 

Other Academic Institutions: If you are associated with another university (student, faculty, etc.) you should also contact its library for support. Our counterparts at the other institution may be able to find access through your institution's database subscriptions, interlibrary loan, or alternative methods.  

Alumni: If you are an alum of the University of Virginia The Alumni Association offers access to a small number of databases through the HoosOnline program. More info here: https://www.library.virginia.edu/services/alumni/ 

 

If you need help finding information on a particular topic, we're happy to help you find sources on the web that are not behind paywalls. Feel free to chat or e-mail us at library@virginia.edu

Read more about services available to Community Patrons at UVA Library.

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