All current employees, emeritus retirees, and currently enrolled students can use library resources remotely simply by starting on the library's website, search in the main search box, use Discovery Search, use the link(s) to browse or search our databases, journals, or ebooks. Once you encounter a resource that requires authentication, you will be automatically prompted to sign in and authenticate yourself as affiliated with Virginia Tech via 2-factor authentication. There is no need to do anything in advance to ensure access, as long as you start on the library's website, or configure Google Scholar to show Get VText links. The system looks up your affiliation with the university in the Banner system.
You can check your current affiliation by logging into OneCampus, search for the Manage Accounts category, and then click on Profile. Scroll to the bottom to see a list of your current affiliations. You'll need to see VT-ACTIVE-MEMBER, VT-AFFILIATE, or VT-RETIREE listed under Affiliations to be able to have Off Campus Access to Library Resources.
If you don't have one of those affiliations, employees should talk with your sponsor or your department's HR representative, and students should speak with the Registrar or Graduate School. The library has no ability to change your affiliation with the university.
An explanation of university affiliations is available online.