Q. I am a new graduate student at Virginia Tech. I have created a PID and password but am unable to access the library's electronic resources.

Even though you can create a PID and password as an incoming student, access to the library's restricted resources like databases and ejournals will not be available until the Registrar's Office runs an end of term/start of term job that changes incoming students' VT affiliation. That can depend on when your assistantship starts (usually by the first day of classes) or when you pay your tuition (can be after classes start).

Success depends on your "affiliation," according to rules established by the university that apply to other privileges besides library access. You can check that affiliation by logging into OneCampus, search for the Manage Accounts category, and then click on My Profile. It will list 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. For example:

• VT-ACTIVE-MEMBER: a person who meets the requirements for vt-student-enrolled (enrolled for the current term) or vt-employee (currently employed faculty or staff).
• VT-EMPLOYEE-RETIREE: a retiree from Virginia Tech.
• VT-STUDENT-FUTURE: any person enrolled in a class for a future term at Virginia Tech, which includes Commonwealth Campus students.
• VT-STUDENT-RECENT: students who have been enrolled in any of the previous four terms (one year), but who are not enrolled for the current term and have not graduated.
• VT-AFFILIATE: a special case person who is only temporarily associated with Virginia Tech (The BOV has this affiliation).
• VT-AFFILIATE-TEMPORARY: an even more temporary, special case category.

The library has absolutely no ability to change your affiliation. Contact your academic department for assistance. Students should speak with the Registrar or Graduate School.

An explanation of university affiliations is available online.