Q. I can't get into a database. What's going on?

Error message: Inactive barcode

The fix: Call the front desk at 281.401.5316 to have them look up your account and make corrections. The account edits will take effect instantly.

The cause: The system is supposed to reactivate every time you re-enroll but sometimes has a hiccup, or maybe someone typo'd your barcode when creating your ID.

Error message: Unauthorized user, not all databases are available at all campuses

The fix: Call the front desk at 281.401.5316 to have them check and edit your assigned campus. The account edits will take effect instantly.

The cause: Usually comes up when you take classes at multiple campuses. Most databases are available to all LSC users, but a few are specific to certain campuses (and are labeled as such on the database pages). Your home campus in the library system doesn't automatically change, so while you may now be taking UP classes, if your account is still on MG, you won't be able to get into any of the UP databases.

Note: The myLoneStar email/password option for accessing databases does not work on campus-specific ones: you have to use the barcode number. This is because only the barcode has location info associated with it.

It's just not loading

The fix: Troubleshooting options include:

• Clearing your browser cache and trying again. (Search online for specific instructions for your browser.)
• Try accessing the database through a different browser entirely.
• See if a different device can access the database.
• Restart your device.
• If an instructor gave you a link to a specific article or video, try navigating into that collection and searching for that specific thing.
  • Check our AZ list of databases to verify that we do still subscribe to that database and it's not an old link they've provided.

The cause: Lots of possibilities -- chalk this up to generic tech issues. Could be your internet, could be their server, could be an LSC server, could be something about your browser settings. Try the above steps to see those clear the issue, then contact the library (call 281.401.5390, text 281.761.6852, email uplibrary-ref@LoneStar.edu, or chat online) to report the issue.