How do I get help accessing the Library's databases?

Connection Requirements for using our full-text databases:

Using databases on our E-Library Services page from home or anywhere outside a Regina Public Library Branch requires a valid RPL card number, and a browser that supports JavaScript and accepts session cookies.

When you connect to a database, you will be prompted to enter your Library card number and last name. Enter all 14 digits -- and be sure not to enter spaces. The system checks to make sure that you have entered a valid number. Once logged in, the system will create a "session" cookie on your computer that gives you access to the databases.

After I enter my Library card number I get a message about my card not being valid or recognized.

You may have made a mistake typing in your Library card barcode number. Please try it again.

Although my Library card number is accepted, I still get prompted for a login name and password by the reference resource site.

Try connecting to one or more different databases. If you can get to other databases, the problem may be a temporary issue at the first site you tried to access. If you cannot access other databases, here are some other things to consider:

• Do you have a firewall or router installed?
  
  
• There are reported problems with ZoneAlarm Pro and Norton Internet Security including Norton Personal Firewall. If you use these programs, you will need to disable them or set restrictions to low during the duration of your access to the databases. Library staff are not aware of appropriate configurations to keep your security programs running while accessing our resources.
  
  
• Many firewalls also automatically block cookies. If your browser accepts cookies and you are still getting prompted for a user name and password, you may need to change the firewall configuration to accept cookies from Regina Public Library, the Saskatchewan Provincial Library and the database vendor.
  
  
• Do you use a proxy server? Do you have software installed that "makes your Internet connection faster" (accelerator)?
  
  These tools (both free and pay versions) often cache your Library card number or embedded usernames and password URLs. These actions result in access failures when you try to connect to other databases. It is often best to disable or uninstall this software before accessing our databases (or the online catalogue) to avoid such problems. The Library has taken the appropriate steps to limit the problems software like this can cause, but ultimately some access issues will be beyond our control as the software affecting access resides on your computer.
  
  
• Ensure your browser set up to accept session cookies.
  
  
• Are you using a school or office network?
  
  There may be a single firewall protecting the whole organization. Your technical support staff will need to configure the firewall to allow third party cookies from Regina Public Library, the Saskatchewan Provincial Library and the database vendors in order to get access to many of the databases.