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Connect to Library Resources

Getting Started

Step 1: Download and install the extension: leanlibrary.com/download

Step 2: Select University of British Columbia

Step 3: Start searching! When off-campus, Library Access will let you know when you are on a website that the library has access to.

Step 4: Login with your UBC CWL (campus wide login)

Library Access: Easy Access to Licensed Content

Working on your thesis or paper at home? Looking for scholarly material for your presentation? Download the free Library Access browser extension and access study material anytime, anywhere.

How does it work?

The Library Access browser extension simplifies your access to UBC library materials when you are searching online. You’ll have access whether you’re studying abroad, in a coffee shop, or at home. Using Library Access means you spend less time searching for research material and more time studying. 

After downloading, the extension will notify you when you’re on a website that your library has a subscription for. Then, it’s just a single click to open the site through the library’s systems and get access to all licensed material on that site. The latest version is available for Google Chrome, Firefox, Microsoft Edge, and Opera, with an update for Safari coming in late 2023. A mobile version is not available at this time.

The browser extension shows an icon in the bookmarks bar.

An arrow points to a small green icon that reads "LL" in the bookmarks bar of a Chrome browser

When you navigate to a website for a resource the Library has a subscription for, you'll see a pop-up appear in the top right corner of your browser. That pop-up will prompt you to log in via CWL, or provide additional instructions for accessing the resource.

An example of a pop-up that appears when the Library subscribes to a resource. Message says "UBC Library Access Available. Login with your UBC campus wide login for access ot resources."

What about my privacy?

By using the Library Access extension you will remain completely anonymous. The Library Access browser extension doesn’t collect any personal information unless you actively share it. And it doesn’t collect your IP address or your device’s unique device IDs. Read more about Lean Library's Privacy Policy.