NOTE: This ONLY applies to items in the Library Catalog and not any of the library's subscription databases.
Lack of a connection to the VDOT network through Virtual Private Network (VPN) could be the culprit, if the document you are trying to link to from the Library Catalog is stored on a VDOT network drive.
There are a couple thousand library catalog records that have hypertext links that require not only a connection to the VDOT network but also the use of Internet Explorer. Here are some examples so you know what these links look like:
Example 1: \\0501rcfiles\Library\NTIS\PB2007105594.pdf
Here's the catalog record that contains this link
Example 2: http://vdotlibrary/searches/Appiah_SR_3-25-15.pdf
Here's the catalog record that contains this link
While the library catalog has more than 100,000 links that will resolve properly on or off the VDOT network as long as you enter your Virtual Library Card credentials, links like the ones above are an exception to the rule. As more VDOT employees work remotely following the COVID-19 outbreak that caused a massive workplace shift in March 2020, this new linking challenge may seem suddenly more noticeable. Here are three solutions:
1. VPN: If you access links like the ones above by first connecting to the VDOT network via VPN, please be sure to use the browser Internet Explorer as well. It will not work with Chrome or Firefox!
2. Zscaler: You can also connect with Zscaler and access links like the ones above with the browser Internet Explorer. The application Zscaler was pushed to all VDOT computers in March of 2020 following the COVID-19 outbreak that caused so many VDOT employees to start teleworking. So if you are limited in your ability to use VPN try Zscaler, which is found in your computer's system tray or by going to your Start Menu. Directions are at the bottom of this FAQ. If you have questions contact the IT at (804) 786-8000 or e-mail VDOTITSC@vdot.virginia.gov.
Note: Effective April 7, 2021 Zscaler is no longer available to VDOT employees. It has been replaced with Prisma GlobalProtect VPN. For questions or support contact VITA at vccc@vita.virginia.gov
3. Contact The Library! Any time if you see a link to a full-text document in the library catalog and it does not work please contact library staff and we'll download and deliver it to you!
