Universal Access
[Image from Pixels]
What if someone sends you a link to an article, but you can't access it freely? Depending on where you are, you may have a few options available to you to get it at little or no cost.
If you are near a land-grant or state university, you are able to use that institution's library resources by going in to the physical building and using one of their computers. As the library's collections are supported by public dollars, you have the right to go to that library and use the materials at that location.
Keep in mind, that even though they are publicly funded, access to specific libraries may require additional permissions to access (e.g. a visitor's pass is required for non-Vet Med personnel to enter the Vet Med building to get to the Vet Med Library).
Check with your public library to see how much they charge to request materials through their Interlibrary Loan service (there is usually a fee). If the provider (e.g. Elsevier) states $35.95 on their site to pay for access, check with your local public library, as they might be able to get that same article for $25.00.
