Having spent some time in a university, both as a postgraduate and tutor, I am currently working as a freelance writer-researcher. I live near to the university where I obtained my doctorate, and am an associate reader, able to use the university library and access electronic databases. However, I am now moving to Devon, and while I hope I will be able to pay to use a University library there - as an external borrower - I gather that I will not be allowed to access online resources such as BIDS, Athens and so on. If this is the case across the country, how do freelance writer-researchers - who do not otherwise work in 'institutions' - manage to do research?

I have checked some websites, briefly, and can find nothing to suggest that individual 'academic non-academics' can pay to use electronic databases - not that I would be able to afford the fees. What are we supposed to do? I can remember when it was possible to stroll into any large library and search volumes of the Citation Index, but as electronic resources have taken over from hard copy volumes, it seems that only those who belong to 'institutions' are allowed access to information on the latest research. How have other Writewords readers coped in similar situations? Are there any resources that I'm missing? I visit the British Library in Londan and at Boston Spa, but I cannot afford to do that everytime I want to check who has written any new articles on George Eliot.

All help and advice gratefully received, as I am now beginning to panic - just as my longed-for move approaches.

You will be able to use your Athens password from any location if you get it validated by your current institution for 'off site' access. I work with distance learning students who do this as they are not able to access the campus network directly. Otherwise there is not much you can do other than to check on the range of public acesss electronic databases!

I hope this is some help

Jane

Dear Jane, Thanks for your prompt reply, but - unless I am actually teaching for them - my home university library does not allow me to have my own login password to use electronic databases, a member of staff has to log in for me, on site! I'm not allowed off-site access. Ho Humm. Panic mounting, Gritty.

I see your problem but alas know of no solution. I have access as I am doing a phd at the University of Gloucestershire so I do sympathize. there must be a solution!