Technical Support for Access to the Databases
Before you start, make sure you have
If you are still having problems accessing the Library's databases, please see our troubleshooting section.
The Library’s Catalog and most of the Library’s subscription databases are designed to work with Internet Explorer and Mozilla's Firefox. We recommend you upgrade your browser to the latest version of Internet Explorer or Firefox.
Browsers provided by Internet Service Providers (ISPs) such as AOL, Earthlink, MSN, etc. may not be compatible with the Library’s Catalog or databases. If you experience problems with your ISP’s browser, try switching to either Internet Explorer or Firefox.
Your browser must be configured to accept cookies, and java must be enabled. You should also set your browser to refresh Web page data each time it accesses a page.
Cookies Settings
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Internet Explorer 8 |
Tools | Internet Options | Privacy tab. Set it to Medium or Low. |
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Internet Explorer 7 |
Tools | Internet Options | Privacy tab. Set it to Medium or Low. |
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Mozilla Firefox 3.x |
By default, Firefox 3.x is set to accept cookies. You can check your settings by going to Tools | Options | Privacy. |
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Mozilla Firefox 2.x |
Tools | Options | Privacy. Enable “Accept cookies from sites.” |
Java and Javascript Settings
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Internet Explorer 8 |
Tools | Internet Options | Programs tab | Manage add-ons. Select Java Plug-in and verify that status is Enabled. If there is no Java Plug-in listed, you may need to install Java. You can download it at www.java.com. |
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Internet Explorer 7 |
Tools | Internet Options | Programs tab | Manage add-ons. Select Java Plug-in and verify that status is Enabled. If there is no Java Plug-in listed, you may need to install Java. You can download it at www.java.com. |
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Mozilla Firefox 3.x |
Tools | Options | Content. Enable the checkboxes for “Enable JavaScript.” |
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Mozilla Firefox 2.x |
Tools | Options | Content. Enable the checkboxes for “Enable JavaScript” and for “Enable Java.” |
If you continue to experience problems accessing the Library's databases, try the following tips.
Clear Your Browser's Cache
Sometimes previously stored items in the browser’s cache may interfere with accessing a database. To clear these files see the instructions below.
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Internet Explorer 8 |
Tools | Internet Options | General tab | Browsing history. Click on the Delete button, then click on Delete at the bottom and click Yes to the message. |
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Internet Explorer 7 |
Tools | Internet Options | General tab | Browsing history. Click on the Delete button, then click on Delete All at the bottom and click Yes to the message. |
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Mozilla Firefox 3.x |
Tools | Clear Recent History. Click Clear Now. |
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Mozilla Firefox 2.x |
Tools | Options | Privacy | Private data | Settings. Enable Browsing History, Cache and Cookies, then click OK. Click on the Clear Now button. |
Disable Pop-Up Blockers
Be aware that some databases make use of pop-up windows. If your browser, toolbar, or pop-up blocking program is set to block pop-ups, you may need to disable this feature.
Firewall and Security Software Conflicts
Some firewalls and security software programs require additional configuration in order to allow access to the Library’s Catalog and databases. For more information on configuring your firewall or security software, contact your vendor. Wake County Public Libraries IT staff cannot help you configure your firewall or software.
If you are using a computer at work to access library resources, your company’s network security system may cause problems. If you have persistent difficulty, contact your company’s IT staff. Wake County Public Libraries IT staff has no control over another company’s security policies.
DO NOT bookmark the database link pages!
The databases cannot be accessed directly. You have to be an authenticated Wake County Public Library user for EVERY session of your access. ALWAYS start from the Research page.
If you suspect the Library's databases are malfunctioning, please call your local library or contact AskWCPL. Staff will follow up as soon as possible.