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Using ASU Library E-Resources

A quick guide to using and troubleshooting ASU Library’s licensed electronic resources.

Troubleshooting tips

If you're having trouble accessing full-text library content, the issue is often resolved by clearing your browser’s cache, cookies, and browsing history.

Confirm the basics first:

  • Are you a current ASU student, faculty, or staff member?
  • Are you signed in to the ASU Library website?

If you answered "yes" to both, try the steps below to clear your cache. You may need to try both methods if the issue persists.

Clear your cache

Keyboard shortcut for most browsers

If you're using Internet Explorer, Edge, Google Chrome, or Mozilla Firefox, you can quickly clear your cache using a keyboard shortcut:

  1. Open your browser.
  2. Press Ctrl (Cmd) + Shift + Delete simultaneously on your keyboard.
  3. This will open a window where you can clear your cache, cookies, and browsing history.
    • For time range, select "All time" or "Everything."
    • For data types: cache, cookies, and browsing history
  4. Clear the data
  5. Close/quit the browser and restart it after clearing the cache and cookies.

Browser specific help:

Before clearing cache, test first

If you’re having trouble accessing databases or full-text articles, the cause may be cookies or extensions. Before clearing your cache (which signs you out of sites and ASU), try opening the resource in a clean browser session:

  • Chrome → Profile icon → Open Guest Profile
    (fresh window, no cookies, history, or extensions)

  • Edge → Profile icon → Other Profiles → Browse as a Guest
    (fresh window, no cookies, history, or extensions)

  • Firefox → Menu → Help → Troubleshoot Mode
    (temporarily disables extensions and resets settings; note this closes and restarts your current session)

  • Other browsers (Brave, Opera, Vivaldi) → Most also offer a Guest Profile option

Close the window when done; your main session remains unchanged.

Other browser fixes

  • Disable extensions: Some extensions, especially ad-blockers or privacy tools, can interfere with resource access. Temporarily disable them to see if access improves.
  • Update your browser to the latest version: Outdated versions may have compatibility issues.
  • Enable cookies and JavaScript: Many library resources require cookies and JavaScript. Verify that these are enabled in your browser settings.
  • Check pop-up blocker settings: Some resources open in new windows. Ensure your pop-up blocker is configured to allow pop-ups from library websites.
  • Use a supported browser: While most modern browsers are compatible, some resources may work better with specific browsers. If you encounter issues, try accessing the resource using a different browser.

Still having trouble?

How do I get technical help with ASU Library resources? 

If problems persist, submit a Support Request for help. Include the following for faster troubleshooting:

  • A screenshot or video of the error, including the full URL in your browser
  • The name of the resource or database
  • What browser and device you are using
  • Whether you're on or off campus

Free tools for capturing issues

  • Loom (free version): Record your screen with audio
  • Built-in tools:
    • Windows: Snipping Tool or Snip & Sketch
    • Mac: Command + Shift + 4 (screenshot) or QuickTime (screen recording)
    • Chromebook: Ctrl + Shift + Show Windows

Related FAQs

How do I fix the “400 Bad Request: Request Header or Cookie Too Large” error, or other errors (401, 403, 404, 500) when accessing library resources?

The “400 Bad Request: Request Header or Cookie Too Large” error is one of the most common problems reported with library access. It usually happens when your browser stores too many or outdated cookies across library, proxy, or vendor sites, and the system rejects the request.

Other errors like 401 Unauthorized, 403 Forbidden, 404 Not Found, or 500 Internal Server Error can also occur. These are often linked to stale browser sessions, corrupted cookies, expired logins, or temporary problems on the vendor’s side.

The most effective solution is to follow the steps in our Troubleshooting tips, especially clearing your cache and cookies for all time, then restarting your browser and trying again.

If the problem continues after trying these steps, please submit a Support request. Be sure to include a screenshot with the full error message and the URL so we can investigate further.

More FAQs