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Your FirstSearch authorization number, password, and welcome letter

After setting up your FirstSearch account, OCLC sends you a welcome letter containing your FirstSearch authorization number and a temporary password to use with the FirstSearch service and the administrative module. The letter is sent by e-mail, fax, or mail, as requested in your FirstSearch order.

Check your account and change your passwords

Soon after you receive your FirstSearch welcome letter, log on to the WorldCat Services administrative module to check your account and change your FirstSearch passwords. Do this for each authorization number (if you have more than one) because each pertains to a different FirstSearch account. For information about logging on to the administrative module, checking your FirstSearch account, and changing your passwords, see Use the WorldCat Services Administrative Module.

FirstSearch hours of operation

FirstSearch is available all hours of the week, except some Sundays from 2:00 a.m. to 6:00 a.m. U.S. Eastern Time.

Who may use and have access to FirstSearch

The FirstSearch/Electronic Collections Online Service Terms define who may use and have access to the FirstSearch service. The definition varies by type of library. The Service Terms are included with the order form covering your library. To see the Service Terms while using FirstSearch, click Terms and Conditions on any FirstSearch screen.

How to get assistance

See Get assistance.

How to comment

OCLC welcomes your comments about FirstSearch and its administrative module. What you say helps improve FirstSearch for all libraries and users. To comment while you are using FirstSearch or the administrative module, click Comments on the screen you are viewing.

OCLC also invites you to share your comments and suggestions about OCLC documentation, including online help. See Contact us.