Answered By: UAlbany Libraries
Last Updated: Jun 12, 2025     Views: 5

You do not need to create an alumni account or log in to view catalog search results. The library catalog is freely searchable by anyone, and all search results/records are displayed without requiring authentication.

What you CAN do without logging in:

  • Search the library catalog
  • View search results lists
  • See item details and availability
  • Access many open-access online resources

What the "Sign in to get complete results and to request items" message means:
If you see this message in our search tool, it's referring to additional services and options that become available when current students, faculty, and staff sign in, such as:

  • Request/hold options for physical items
  • Access to your library account (loans, fines, etc.)
  • Interlibrary loan requests
  • Saved searches and personalized features

When you DO need an alumni account:

  • Borrowing physical materials
    • Alumni may register in person at any library circulation desk with a photo ID to borrow library materials.
  • Remote database access
    • Alumni get access to Ebsco's Academic Search and Business Search databases with special login credentials (available through the Alumni Association website)

For questions, please contact us at accessservices@albany.libanswers.com 

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