Connecting to SWAN and Authenticating Patrons
Vendors must work with SWAN directly, and may need to do development work depending on the integration. Once done, all SWAN libraries can support the applications. Vendors must sign the SWAN Vendor Policy before starting work.
Submit a ticket prior to signing any agreements to ensure SWAN's compatibility with the requested services.
The following are the most common methods that vendors use to connect to SWAN Library Services:
SIP2/TLS-SIP2
The most common connection method in libraries, SIP2 is supported by most vendors. This protocol can directly interface with the ILS using SWAN-provided credentials over a specified network port.
SIP2 is commonly used by member libraries with computer reservation systems, self-checkout, and automated material handling systems (AMH). An internal library SIP2 port and assigned login must be used to establish a connection to the SWAN ILS.
SIP2 vs. TLS-SIP2: By default SIP2 is unencrypted. Member libraries connect to SWAN using a VPN which encrypts all traffic and mitigates some of that risk (it is important that member libraries take appropriate measures to secure their local network). TLS encryption is utilized to protect SIP2 traffic that passes beyond SWAN and member library networks in order to prevent Personally Identifiable Information (PII) from being passed unencrypted over the Internet.
As of 2021, SWAN will not support any new connections to SWAN services via unencrypted SIP2. We are actively working with existing vendors to migrate to TLS-encrypted SIP2 or alternative connections.
For those external services, SWAN also establishes unique access ports for each individual vendor/service along with a unique login that permits read-only ILS access.
Example vendors: Overdrive, Axis360, Envisionware, Bibliotheca.
SirsiDynix Web Services
Proprietary to the Symphony ILS, Web Services API is the preferred connection method to SWAN's database server. This connectivity is established over a web URL using SSL, ensuring encrypted traffic.
This connection method is supported by many providers of digital content, room reservation, and discovery services. SWAN can sometimes develop custom integrations for Web Services and establish connections with external vendors as needed.
Example vendors: Communico, Midwest Tape, Demco.
OpenAthens
OpenAthens is an authentication method that provides modern single sign-on (SSO) technology and IP/Proxy experience. With OpenAthens, patrons only need to authenticate once to access all electronic resources. OpenAthens SSO technology allows only authenticated patrons access and meets data protection governance and compliance requirements.
For vendors and publishers that still rely on IP authentication, OpenAthens provides a solution. Single links are created that allow patrons access to the information needed whether they are on-site in the library, or at home.
This method does not check the patron status or fine threshold. Therefore, any patron with a library card can authenticate using OpenAthens regardless of patron status. OpenAthens does not update the last activity date in the patron record. SWAN staff run a report through OpenAthens to ensure that any patrons that only access content electronically, are not purged.
Example vendors: EBSCO, ProQuest, Gale. Search the complete list of OpenAthens compatible providers.
Every SWAN library has been reviewed as of 08/31/2024 to ensure that applicable electronic resources have been updated to OpenAthens as the primary method of authentication. To review your links, please download the spreadsheet and locate your library by tab. To ensure resources have the preferred method of authentication, please open a ticket when acquiring a new resource, or any time you wish to have a resource reviewed.