Q. Why do I get prompted to log-on after I've already logged in at this workstation?
A. When you log in, a cookie is placed on your hard drive. If this cookie cannot be placed on your hard drive, or has been inadvertently erased, you will be asked to log in again. If you continually receive this prompt, make sure your browser is enabled to accept cookies and you disable any security software while logging in.
Q. When I access my SKS/Discoverer online database, I get an error message that tells me my IP address is invalid. I already gave SIRS all my IP addresses, so why would I get this message?
A. IP addresses are sometimes changed at the network level. Network personnel will almost always inform you when this happens. If you get this message, contact your network personnel and ask to verify all the external IP's for your site, then call us and we will update them in your account.
Q. Why do I get the message, this URL has been corrupted or timed out?
A. Your session may have ended. When the interface is left idle for a specified amount of time, the session information including the tagged list and search history is cleared for the next user. If you receive this message repeatedly, have your System Administrator contact SIRS to extend the default session length. If you receive this message when you initially launch SIRS Knowledge Source, update your bookmarks as detailed in Linking & Bookmarking.
Q. When I access the SKS/Discoverer online database through the bookmark/favorite I created, I get the "Administrator Main Menu" page. On this page there is a link to "Change Password". I do not want students and other faculty to have access to this. How can I fix that?
A. Change your bookmark/favorites to point to each databases' home page. For example, direct the SKS bookmark/favorite to http://sks.sirs.com. Direct the Discoverer bookmark/favorite to http://discoverer.sirs.com. See Linking & Bookmarking for detailed instructions
Q. I am a student and use SIRS at my school/library. How can I access the SIRS online databases from home?
A. Ask your school/library for the home access account log-in information. If they do not have a home access account, ask them to call SIRS Customer Service or their sales representative to get it activated.
Q. How far back are articles archived?
A. SIRS databases include all archives which date as far back as 1989.
Q. Can I download articles or graphics for use in a project or report?
A. All reproductions and distribution of materials retrieved through the service are subject to the Copyright Act of 1976, title 17 U.S.C., and other applicable intellectual property laws. You may display, download or print content solely for educational, research, scholarly and personal uses, but may make no other uses of such content without the express written permission of SIRS Publishing, Inc. and the copyright owner.
Q. How do I directly link to an article or feature of SIRS Discoverer without going to the opening screen?