Are passwords required?
Yes, passwords are required:
- to access some library databases, such as Libby by Overdrive
- to check out eBooks & eAudiobooks
- to place items on hold in our library catalog
You do not need a password:
- to use self-checkout machines
- to work or hang out in the Library building
- to access Library WiFi
- to participate in Library events
- to use the Library Lab
- to use the copier
- to scan documents
- to access Hoopla
- to make meeting room and meeting pod reservations
- to access Library computers
- to print at the Library
Password Tip for Parents & Caregivers
If you have multiple family members with library cards, you can choose the same password for each cardholder so you do not have to juggle multiple passwords in order to access online accounts and services.
How to reset or update a password?
Click on “My Account” at the top of the website.
Click on the “Reset My Password” link/text.
Enter the library card number and click “Submit." An email with a link to change the password will be sent to the associated account.
Enter the library card number and new password, then click "Save Changes."
New passwords MUST consist of at least six alphanumeric characters. A valid library card and email account are required to reset passwords.
Can library staff reset passwords?
Staff can help reset passwords by updating the account in our library system. However, we cannot choose the new password. We will set a temporary password. Patrons must come in person with their library card number or photo ID.
Do library cards work without a password?
Yes, but only to check out books and other library items in person at the library. Bring the library card number or photo ID and items to any information desk to check out without a password.
Can staff recover a forgotten password?
No. The password is encrypted information, so staff cannot access it.
Choose the "Forgot My Password" option in "My Account".
A valid email is required to reset a forgotten password.
Why does the library require passwords?
This requires current cardholders to use a password to access the “My Account” features online, to access some databases and eResources, and to complete some in-library services such as printing. The decision to implement passwords in Sierra was reached via extensive discussion in the Privacy, Security, and Accessibility Committee, Marmot Council, Marmot leadership, and the Marmot Executive Board.
We prioritize the protection of patron privacy as a core tenet of the Library Bill of Rights. Colorado law also requires “reasonable steps” to protect personally identifiable information. Implementing passwords for access to patron data is a reasonable step.
Passwords are for more than just keeping patrons' reading history private. Personally identifiable information, such as personal contact information, can be more easily accessed without passwords in place - information that has the potential to result in identity theft or other crimes.