HFC LibAnswers

Troubleshooting access to online resources 

The Henry Ford College Eshleman Library has online research databases available to students, faculty, and staff. As of August 2022, these databases no longer require a library barcode number. Please use your HFC username and password to access databases. When problems occur, they are most often web browser issues, but can also be due to other problems, or temporary technical issues with the resources. If you have any questions or need help, please contact a librarian.

Known problems and possible solutions:

Browser, network, website security or ISP problem: (most common issues)

• Use incognito/private window: This is the solution that solves most known error messages. You can either start your session using an incognito (Chrome) or private (Firefox) window, or right-click on the link to a library resource and choose to open the link in incognito/private mode.
• Change browser: Try a different browser (Firefox, Chrome, Safari). This is also a common solution. Databases such as CINAHL and Kanopy seem to work best in Firefox.
• Browser cache full:  Go to the browser settings and clear the history (cache) and cookies, restart your browser, and try to reconnect.
• Browser update required: Check to ensure that your browser is up to date and update as required.
• JavaScript and/or cookies disabled: Go to the browser settings and enable JavaScript/allow cookies.
• Local firewall preventing use of the library proxy: This problem is especially common in corporate or institutional settings. Contact your local network administrator for support.
• Internet service provider (ISP) preventing use of the library proxy: Some ISPs, especially satellite providers, may prevent use proxies. Contact your ISP for support.

Database is asking for a password other than library barcode: The library rarely uses separate login information for databases. Use your HFC username and password for access. If a database asks for a different password, it is often due to the following factors: 

• The user tried to access the database directly, rather than linking from the HFC library page: Access the resource from the Library Homepage, where you click on Articles (do not use bookmarks or copied URLs). 
• The database timed out due to inactivity: Initiate a new session using a link from the Library Homepage. 
• The number of simultaneous users allowed under the library's contract for the database has been exceeded: wait a few minutes, then try to access the resource again.
• A few databases (such as LearningExpress Library) require first-time users to register for a free account.

Alternate solutions: 

• Michigan Electronic Library (MeL) databases - access to a limited set of databases for all Michigan residents; login with your driver's license or state ID.
• Chat with a Librarian to troubleshoot.