Password information

The OU Library provides OU registered students and staff with access to subscription-based online resources. In order to access online resources you need to know your OU computer username (OUCU) and password. You no longer require an Athens username and password as all resources which previously required this are now available using your OUCU. You do need to make sure that you access resources through the Library website to ensure that you pick up the correct authentication and are recognised as coming from The Open University.

If you are unsure of your entitlement to our online resources then please check by using the drop-down list on the Services page.

A few Library resources still require specific usernames and passwords for access.

You are reminded that use of ALL online resources subscribed by the Library, including those on trial, is subject to Copyright Law which applies to both printing and downloading. You MUST abide by the Use of electronic resources - Copyright regulations.

What do I do if my passwords aren't working?

If you are an OU student or an Associate Lecturer, contact the OU Student Computing Helpdesk at +44 (0) 1908 653972 or email OU-Computing-Helpdesk@open.ac.uk

If you are a member of OU staff or a postgraduate research student, contact the Academic Computing Services Helpdesk at +44 (0) 1908 654238 or email AACS-TDS@open.ac.uk

Please quote your student number (Personal Identifier) or staff number to enable helpdesk staff to deal with your query as quickly as possible.

How long will my passwords stay valid?

Undergraduate and taught postgraduate student passwords are valid from one month prior to the course start date to three months after the course end date.

Postgraduate research student passwords remain valid until the date they submit their thesis.

Staff and associate lecturer passwords remain valid as long as they are employed or contracted by the OU.