Normally access to library during self operated times is controlled by the library system; either through SIP connection or another means, such as Mikromarc authentication API. It is also possible to create specific rules that allow or block access to a library branch. These can be used to allow cleaning staff or security guards or library staff access, without requiring that they are patrons in the library system. This is done by Chite-/Blacklist, as described in the following chapters.

Another method is to require that patrons not only have a valid library card and identifier, but are specifically registered to gain access to self-operated library. This is most commonly the case for specialised libraries, or libraries where only a part of the library is controlled by self-operated system, and only some patrons are allowed access.