Why is Siouxland Libraries implementing the Library Online system?

The Library Online system offers you convenient, easy to use methods of booking computers-from home, office, school and the library. Library Online is available across the Siouxland Libraries system allowing you access to a wide choice of computers without need for staff assistance.

What types of computers can I book?

You can book 1-hour adult computers, 1-hour teen computers, 30-minute children’s computers and 1-hour Adaptive Technology computers. 15 minute or Express computers can not be booked. They are first-come, first-served only.

What do I need to book a computer?

You will need a valid Siouxland Libraries library card and a PIN. If your library card has more than $5 in fees, you will not be able to book a computer until the fees are resolved.

What is a PIN?

Your PIN is usually the last four digits of your phone number or a specific number you requested. If you have changed your phone number since you registered for a library card, try the last four digits of your old phone number. If that still does not work, you will need to visit one of our library locations to update your information.

Why do I get “Sorry, you have entered an invalid barcode number and/or PIN” message when I try to log on?

You might have made a typing mistake. Be sure you have typed your library barcode number without any spaces and have entered a valid PIN. If you get the message a second time, speak to the library staff.

What if I do not have a Siouxland Libraries library card?

If you live or own property in Minnehaha County, except Dell Rapids, you may register for a card free of charge. Bring identification with your name and current address to your local Siouxland Libraries branch.

What if I am a visitor to your library?

Those who are not eligible for a free card and have photo identification will be issued a temporary user card for computer access only.

How far in advance can I book time on a computer?

You can book a computer up to three days in advance.

Can I book time on a children’s computer with an adult card?

No. Children’s computers can only be reserved with a child’s card.

Can I book a specific computer?

Yes. After you’ve chosen your location, choose the “Search by specific PC” option. The next screen has a drop down menu next to “PC Name.” This allows you to choose from the computers available at that library location.

What if I am late for my appointment?

You must log on within 10 minutes of your scheduled start time or you will lose your reservation. Those 10 minutes will be deducted from your total number of minutes for that day.

If you are late and miss your scheduled appointment, you may still use another computer if one is available. However, the missed appointment does count against you.

If you miss three appointments within seven days, you will not be allowed to use the computer for the three days following your third missed appointment.

What if I arrive early for my appointment?

If the computer you have reserved is not in use when you arrive at the library, make sure the clock in the lower right hand corner of the screen matches your login time before you logon. If you log in early, the computer will log you off at your originally scheduled time.

When I logged on, the computer told me I only had a few minutes left in my session. Why don’t I have more time?

This means the computer you logged into may be scheduled for someone else in a few minutes, or you have already used most of your allotted minutes for the day.

If I do not use the mouse/keyboard for a certain length of time, will I be logged out?

If there is no mouse/keyboard activity for 10 minutes, the computer will send a message to the screen asking if you are still there. If there is no reply, the computer will log out.

If I finish my session early, what should I do?

Close the window by clicking on the X in the upper right hand corner of the screen. The Library Online window will be displayed on the screen. If it is not displayed, select it from the icon at the bottom of the screen. Click on “Log Out.” You will get a question asking you if you are sure. Click on “yes” and you will be logged out.