What's the difference between Open Access and OpenAthens? Aren't they the same thing?
Answer
No, they are not the same thing.
Open Access is a publishing model for scholarly communication that makes research information available to readers at no cost. (Source)
Translation: Open Access is free to access, no login required.
OpenAthens is a sign-in method. It enables libraries, publishers, and organizations to give specific users access to e-resources. (Source)
Translation: When a login is required to get to paid library resources, OpenAthens validates the user.
[This FAQ was updated on 14 August 2025. POC: Virtual Branch.]