January 30, 2008
OCLC Acquires EZproxy Authentication and Access Software
EZproxy, the leading software solution for serving library patrons remotely, has been acquired by OCLC. OCLC is planning to connect local instances of EZproxy to WorldCat.org. By linking EZproxy in WorldCat.org, end users outside of the library will have better access to library collections and services through WorldCat.
Previously owned by Useful Utilities of Peoria, Arizona, EZproxy was developed to provide libraries with a better solution for authenticating remote user access to licensed databases. EZproxy software allows libraries to manage access and authentication configurations through a proxy server so that library users do not have to make any configuration changes to their personal Web browsers.
OCLC will honor EZproxy's current service arrangement for existing and new customers whereby licensees continue to enjoy access to new releases of EZproxy and technical support at no additional charge.
OCLC will continue to develop and support EZproxy by working with commercial vendors to create new connectors to authentication systems and online content resources to libraries. EZproxy version 4.1 is scheduled for release in March 2008.
Visit the OCLC Web site for more information.
