Yes, if there is a time-sensitive need, but only after you have gone through the troubleshooting steps and verified that the patron is an authorized user. Just because someone is affiliated with the university (i.e. they have a public borrowing card, work in the research park, or are not currently enrolled in classes), does not mean they are authorized to use electronic resources. Having access to the VPN does not mean that someone is an authorized user.

Some methods you can use to check the patron’s status are:

• Call the Urbana ID Center (only available M-F 9-5) and give them the patron’s NetID (if they have given you their email address, you will have this). They can do a name-only search, but it’s harder for them, and they prefer a UIN or NetID.  They will be able to verify the patron’s affiliation type and whether or not it’s still active.
• Check the Campus Directory. It is generally up-to-date for faculty and staff and you may be able to get confirmation of the patron’s affiliation from their listing.
• Call CAS and ask if they can look the patron up in their records and provide verification