Library FAQ

If you're off-campus, Google Scholar won't automatically recognize you as a CSUSM student. To ensure access to full-text articles provided by the CSUSM Library, follow the steps below to connect through the library’s system.

Step 1: Go to the Library Website

• Visit the CSUSM Library homepage.
• Scroll down or look under “Start Your Research” and click “Databases A–Z.”

Step 2: Access Google Scholar CSUSM

• You will be redirected to the Databases A-Z webpage
• At the top of the page, you will see a large blue button labeled “Google Scholar CSUSM.”
• Click that blue button. It links you to a special version of Google Scholar that connects to CSUSM subscriptions.

Step 3: Search for Articles

• Once you're in Google Scholar CSUSM, type your search term or article title.
• Press Enter or click the Search icon

Step 4: Look for “Get it @ CSUSM” Links

• Look for “Get it @ CSUSM”, a PDF, or HTML links.
• They often appear to the right of the article title.
• Click one of them to access the full text through the library.

Step 5: If You Don't See the Link Right Away…

• Sometimes links are hidden under a double arrow » icon.
• Click the double arrow “»” symbol under the article.
• The “Get it @ CSUSM,” PDF, or HTML link should appear.
• Click one of them to access the full text through the library.