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Frequently Asked Questions
Online services
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I got a warning message saying “There is a problem with this website’s security certificate” or “This Connection is Untrusted” on the browser when using the library online services. What should I do? |
| A1: |
Library online services provided by the Hong Kong Public Libraries make use of certificates issued by the Hongkong Post to encrypt data during network transmission. If you encountered the warning message about the security certificate when using the library online services, please configure your browser to recognize the e-certs issued by Hongkong Post. Please click to download and install the following certificates to your computer to continue using the library online services:
Hongkong Post Root CA1
Hongkong Post e-Cert CA1-10
Hongkong Post e-Cert CA1
The above mentioned certificates can also be downloaded from the Hongkong Post CA Root Certificate website (http://www.hongkongpost.gov.hk/product/download/root/index.html)
For instructions of installation of the CA Certificates, please click the following link:
http://www.hongkongpost.gov.hk/product/download/root/install.html
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| Q2: |
I didn’t need to download and install the Hongkong Post Root Certificates when using library online services in the past. Why do I need to download it now?
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| A2: |
The common browser software installed in most computers supports storage and use of the above-mentioned root certificates. However, the Hongkong Post issued a new sub CA (known as Hongkong Post e-Cert CA 1-10) on 26 February 2010. If the Internet browser on users’ PC is not installed with this new sub CA, users need to install it in order to use the library online services. To learn more about the Hongkong Post Root Certificates, please visit the following Hongkong Post website: http://www.hongkongpost.gov.hk/product/download/root/index.html |
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| Q3: |
What do I need to know about data protection when using public library online services and other government online services? |
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To learn more about information security when using government online services, please visit the following website: http://www.gov.hk/en/about/helpdesk/faq/infosec/index.shtml
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Internet Express Terminal
| Q1: |
What kind of service do Internet Express Terminals (IETs) provide? |
| A1: |
IETs provide a quick and immediate access to the Internet for library users to check their web-based emails and surf the web without prior reservation. |
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| Q2: |
What are the new functions of the new model IET? |
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The new model IET provides the following new functions:
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Handwriting pad for Chinese input;
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USB slot for USB flash memory device; |
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Screen magnification software for the visually impaired; |
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Height adjustable screen and keyboard for wheelchair users. |
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| Q3: |
Do I need to make reservation for using IET? |
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No. You may visit any branch of the Hong Kong Public Libraries (except Sha Tau Kok Public Library, North Lamma Public Library and mobile libraries) during its opening hours and use it immediately for checking web-based emails and surfing the web. Each session lasts for 15 minutes. |
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| Q4: |
Why each session of use is limited to 15 minutes?
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| A4: |
The purpose of IET service is to provide users with immediate access to the Internet for checking web-based emails and surfing the web without prior reservation. The time limit of 15 minutes per session allows more users enjoy the service. |
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| Q5: |
What are the conditions of use for the IET service?
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Besides those general conditions on computer use and its time limit, users are reminded to observe the following:
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All people aged 12 or above are welcome to use the IET; |
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When other users are waiting in queue or upon request by library staff, users should leave the IET for the next user after the end of a session; |
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Users are strictly prohibited from sending any unsolicited electronic messages (whether of commercial or non-commercial nature); |
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Users are not allowed to access websites containing materials which are obscene, indecent, violent, disgusted, libellous, threatening or discriminatory in nature; |
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No online games or gambling is allowed; |
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Users shall make sure that there is no infringement of copyright when using the IET. |
Please read the Conditions of Use for details.
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| Q6: |
What are the service hours of the IET?
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The service hours follow the opening hours of the library where an IET resides.
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| Q7: |
How many sessions can I use in a day?
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There is no limit on the number of session per user in a day. When other users are waiting in queue or upon request by library staff, please leave the terminal for the next user after finishing your current session.
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| Q8: |
Can I download/save/print files from an IET?
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Users may use the new model IET to download and save files to their own USB flash memory device through the built-in USB slot. However, users are required to make reservation for use of other Internet workstations in libraries for the printing service.
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| Q9: |
Will my browsing history and downloaded files be cleared after the end of a session? |
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Yes. For the sake of protecting users' privacy, IET will automatically log off after the end of a session or when it has been left idle for 5 minutes. All browsing history or downloaded files will be cleared automatically. Hence, users are reminded to save files from the “Download Folder” of the new model IET to their own USB flash memory device before the end of a session. |
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| Q10: |
Can the next user read my browsing history and downloaded files in case I forget to log off before leaving the IET?
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Users are advised to log off all online accounts and sessions before leaving the IET for the sake of protecting their privacy. Nevertheless, IET will automatically log off when it has been left idle for 5 minutes. All browsing records and downloaded files will be cleared automatically. |
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| Q11: |
Can I log on the IET again and get back my files from the “Download Folder” if I forget to save the files in previous session? |
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No. All browsing history and downloaded files will be cleared automatically after the end of a session for the sake of protecting users’ privacy. Hence, users are reminded to save files from the “Download Folder” of the new model IET to their own USB flash memory device before the end of a session. |
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| Q12: |
Why did the IET log off automatically while I was using it? |
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For the sake of protecting users' privacy, the IET will automatically log off when it has been left idle for 5 minutes. Users may move the mouse cursor occasionally in order to avoid being idle on a web page for too long which may lead to automatic log off while watching videos or listening to sound recordings, etc. |
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| Q13: |
What should I do if it takes more than 15 minutes to download my files? |
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Since the IET will log off automatically after the end of a 15-minute session, all browsing history or downloaded files will be cleared. Users are advised to make reservation for use of other Internet workstations in libraries if they want to download large files which may take over 15 minutes. |
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| Q14: |
Why my USB flash memory device with password potection function cannot work when it is connected to the new model IET? |
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The new model IET does not support such type of USB flash memory device. |
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| Q15: |
How to save downloaded files to my USB flash memory device from the new model IET? |
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Downloaded files are by default kept at the “Download Folder” under “File Manager” of the new model IET. Users may access it by clicking the “File Manager” in “Start” menu at the lower left hand corner of the screen, and then copy files from there to their USB flash memory device. Select “Safely Remove USB Device” in “Start” menu and then, click “ (S)” to remove your USB device before leaving. |
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| Q16: |
What is the accessibility feature of the new model IET for wheelchair users? |
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The height of the screen and keyboard is adjustable for wheelchair users. Library staff will offer help to users in using the feature. |
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| Q17: |
What is the accessibility feature of the new model IET for the visually impaired? |
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The new model IET is installed with ZoomText, a screen magnification software, for the visually impaired. Users can access the program from the “Start” menu of an IET. Library staff will offer help to users in using the feature. |
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| Q18: |
How to listen to the sound recording of media files on Internet through the IET? |
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There is a headphone jack on the right hand side of the screen. Users may borrow a headphone from library staff at service counters. |
The Use of the Smart ID Card in the Hong Kong Public Libraries
Application for the Service
| Q1: |
How can I apply for using my smart ID card for library services?
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You may fill in an application form and submit to library counter or through the Internet. If you have not been issued with a library card, you are also required to produce proof of address such as electricity bills. Applicants under 18 should also have the guarantee section of the application form completed and signed by their parents or guarantors. |
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Where can I obtain the application form?
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The form can be obtained from all public libraries or downloaded from the Hong Kong Public Libraries homepage or MASC homepage.
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| Q3: |
Can I still apply for a library card if I have applied for using my smart ID card for library services?
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Yes. If you have never been issued with a library card before, you may apply for one if you wish, even you have been using your smart ID card for library services for sometime.
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| Q4: |
If I already have a library card, what can I do? Do I need to apply for the service before I can use my smart ID card for library services?
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Yes. You need to apply for using your smart ID card for library services by filling in an application form.
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| Q5: |
I am a new applicant and I don't feel comfortable of using my smart ID card to borrow library materials, can I apply only for a library card?
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Yes. Actually, you are given options to apply for the use of your smart ID card or library card for library services, or both if you wish. |
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| Q6: |
Is it necessary to return my library card to the libraries after I have applied for using my smart ID card for library services?
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No. You can keep your library card as you wish and use it as an alternative means to borrow library materials. However, you should report loss of your library card because it is a government property. Of course, you may also surrender your library card to the libraries by filling a library form. |
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| Q7: |
My children are under 11 and have no smart ID card, how can they borrow library materials?
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They may apply for a library card to use our services. |
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| Q8: |
My age group has not been scheduled for the smart ID card replacement yet and thus my HKID card is still a traditional one. Can I apply for your service in advance?
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No. You need to have your smart ID card on hand when you apply for the service.
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| Q9: |
My child is under 18 and I don't feel comfortable of allowing him to use his smart ID card for library services, can I object to the use of his smart ID card for library services?
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Yes. Applicants under 18 are required to ask their parents or guarantors to sign on the guarantee section of the application form and you may refuse to sign on the form. |
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| Q10: |
My child is under 18 and I have previously signed for his application of using his smart ID card for library services. Now, he would like to discontinue the service. Do I also need to sign on the cancellation form?
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No. The signature is required only on the application form. |
The Multi-Applications of the Smart ID Card
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If I have some other functions added on my smart ID card such as e-Cert, will those data or information be disclosed to the libraries when I apply for using smart ID card for library services or vice versa?
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No. Actually in terms of library services, no library card data or borrowing records will be stored in your smart ID card. |
Personal Data Protection
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What personal data will be read from my smart ID card and what data will be stored in my card when I use it for library services?
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During the patron's registration process, only five personal data already in the card face of your smart ID card including English Name, Chinese Name, HKID number, Date of Birth and Date of Issue will be read from your card for registration purpose. When you use your smart ID card to borrow library materials, only your HKID number and Date of Issue will be read from your smart ID card. No other personal data will be read from your card and no library card data or borrowing records will be stored in your card. |
Use of Smart ID Card for Library Services
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If I apply for both library card and smart ID card for library services, will the additional card double my borrowing privilege?
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No. Each registered patron is allowed to borrow a maximum of six library items. An additional card only provides you an alternative means to access library services, not to increase your borrowing privilege.
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| Q2: |
Will the use of my smart ID card for library services be expired after a certain period of time?
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No, unless you have made an application for discontinuing the service. |
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| Q3: |
How can I use telephone renewal services with my smart ID card allowed for library services?
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You will be issued with a "library card number" to use the service and the number will be printed on the "library information card". |
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How can I use my smart ID card allowed for library services to use the self-reservation and self-renewal services delivered through the Internet and library terminals?
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You will be issued with a "library card number" to use the service and the number will be printed on the "library information card". |
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| Q5: |
How can I create my personal account to use your e-book services with my smart ID card allowed for library services? |
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You will be issued with a "library card number" to use the service and the number will be printed on the "library information card". |
Library Charge
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Is the service free of charge?
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Yes.
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Will the libraries charge me if I surrender my library card and then subsequently apply for a new library card again?
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No. |
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| Q3: |
Upon loss of my library card, I use my smart ID card to borrow library materials. In this case, will there be any replacement charge levied? |
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No. However, you must submit an application before using your smart ID card for library services and there will be a charge (Adult $25, Junior $13) if you want to apply for a replacement library card. |
Reporting Loss
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Do I need to report loss of my smart ID card to the libraries if I have already made a report to the Immigration Department? |
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Yes. To protect your personal data privacy, your personal data, including the report loss of your smart ID card, will not be shared between the libraries and the Immigration Department and thus you are also required to report to the libraries immediately. |
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If I have lost my smart ID card and have been issued with a replacement card, do I need to fill in any form to reactivate its use for library services? |
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If you have indicated on the reporting loss form to continue using the service with your replacement smart ID card, you are not required to submit any form. However, if you have indicated on the form to discontinue the service and subsequently you decide to re-register for the service again, you will be required to submit a fresh application. |
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| Q3: |
If I have lost my library card, can I use my smart ID card to replace library card for borrowing library materials? |
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Although your smart ID card is not a library card, .you may use your smart ID card to borrow library materials if you have submitted an application. However, in order to protect yourself, you should also report loss of your library card to the libraries immediately under any circumstances. |
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| Q4: |
What should I do if I have lost my "Library Information Card" or I have forgotten my "library card number"? |
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You are not required to report loss of your "library information card". However, if you have forgotten your "library card no.", you may go to any of public libraries and ask library staff to check and write down your library card number on a blank "library information card". |
Discontinue the Service
| Q1: |
How can I stop the service? |
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You can fill in a library form to discontinue the service. |
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