Online Articles

I enter my library card number and PIN, and then the online resource or eBook asks for a username/ID and password, OR says I am not authorized, OR says that I need to return to my library's website, OR shows me an eBook's table of contents only.

Many of the online resources have certain technical requirements for authentication. You may need to make changes to your browser security settings (Internet Explorer, Firefox, Safari, etc.) and personal firewall (Norton Personal Firewall, ZoneAlarm, etc.). One or more of the following settings may need to be changed for that browser session:

  • Adjust firewall settings
  • Be able to accept cookies
  • Have Java, JavaScript, or ActiveX turned on
  • Netscape users: Smart Download option must be disabled
  • Turn off pop-up blockers
  • Change settings on your privacy filter, spam filter, or spyware software
  • Change privacy settings on toolbars installed on your web browser
  • Set your personal firewall to allow cookies, allow mobile code, or allow scripting for both the library's remote authentication address AND the individual database's web address.
  • If you receive an error message when trying to connect to a ProQuest database, such as Safari Tech Books Online, please visit the ProQuest's troubleshooting website by clicking here and here (older version).
  • If you receive an error message when trying to connect to an Ebsco database, please visit Ebsco's troubleshooting website by clicking here.

The library's online articles must be accessed through the library website and not as bookmarked links.

Some problems are solved when you open a browser window, delete temporary Internet files and cookies, close your browser window, open a new browser window, refresh the page, and then go to our website to access the online article. The temporary Internet files and cookies can often be deleted by going to the Tools menu in your browser and clicking on Internet Options.

It is difficult to address every computer configuration. These are basic settings that may cause problems accessing the online articles. If you are unable to access our online articles after changing these computer settings, please contact your local library or fill out our eBooks & eContent Support form.

Can I use Chrome or Safari as my browser to access the online articles?

The browsers Chrome and Safari may not work well with our online articles due to some stringent security features. In those circumstances we advice switching to another browser such as Firefox, Internet Explorer, or Opera.

I enter my library card number and PIN, and it says "Sorry, Your identification is not recognized."

Your card number, PIN, or both do not match what we have on file. Re-enter the 14 digit card number WITHOUT SPACES from your Santa Clara County Library District Card and verify your PIN. If you cannot remember your PIN, you may try the last four digits of your phone number.

Alternative, you can try to reset your PIN online. An email will be sent to the email address associated with your library account, including a link that will allow you to select a new PIN.

If you do not have an email address on file, you will need to go to the Accounts Desk at one of the Santa Clara County Library District locations for assistance.

Read!