Accessing the Indiana Digital Library from Outside the State: A Guide for Non-Residents

Introduction

The Indiana Digital Library (IDL) is a vast collection of digital resources available to Indiana residents. However, non-residents may not be aware that they can also access many of these resources remotely. This article will provide detailed instructions and tips for non-residents to access the IDL's extensive collection.

Benefits of Accessing the IDL for Non-Residents

Access to a Diverse Collection: The IDL contains over 2 million items, including books, audiobooks, e-books, movies, music, and more. This vast collection provides access to a wealth of educational and entertainment resources.

Convenience and Flexibility: With remote access, non-residents can access the IDL's resources from anywhere with an internet connection. This flexibility allows users to learn and enjoy content on their own time and at their own pace.

Reduced Costs: Accessing the IDL through remote means can save non-residents significant money compared to purchasing physical or traditional digital copies of resources.

How to Access the IDL as a Non-Resident

1. Create an Account: Visit the IDL website (https://www.in.gov/library/) and select "Create Account" from the top menu. Enter your personal information, including a valid email address.
2. Choose Your Patron Type: Select "Out-of-State Individual" as your patron type.
3. Provide Documentation: You will be asked to provide documentation that verifies your physical address outside of Indiana. Acceptable forms of documentation include a driver's license, utility bill, or bank statement.
4. Review Terms of Use: Carefully review the terms of use and agree to them to complete the registration process.

Resources Available to Non-Residents

While access to physical materials is restricted to Indiana residents, non-residents can access a wide range of digital resources, including:

• Over 1 million e-books and audiobooks
• Over 500,000 downloadable songs and videos
• Access to streaming movies and TV shows
• Online research databases and scholarly journals

Access Limits: It's important to note that access to some resources may be limited to Indiana residents or may require additional fees.

Tips and Tricks for Non-Residents

Maximize Your Experience:

• Use the Search Bar: Take advantage of the powerful search bar to quickly locate resources that meet your interests.
• Create Collections: Organize your favorite resources and save them in custom collections for easy access later.
• Download Materials: Download e-books, audiobooks, and music to your devices for offline enjoyment.

Troubleshooting:

• Incorrect Documentation: If your documentation is rejected, contact the IDL support team for assistance.
• Limited Access: If you encounter any access issues, check the resource's availability for non-residents and consider purchasing a subscription if necessary.

Call to Action

Don't miss out on the incredible resources available through the Indiana Digital Library. Create an account today and start exploring the vast collection from the comfort of your own home, no matter where you live.