Why is my reader blank when launching from Canvas?

If you've ever experienced a blank page when launching your reader from Canvas, you're not alone.

This issue often happens when using the Safari browser, and it's primarily due to how Safari handles cookies in iFrames, especially in learning management systems (LMS) like Canvas.

The Root Cause: Safari's Cookie Settings
Safari, the default browser on Apple devices, has stringent privacy settings that block cross-site tracking cookies by default. This feature is designed to enhance user privacy by preventing websites from tracking your activity across different sites. However, when it comes to integrating with certain platforms like Canvas, this setting can lead to unintended side effects.

Why does this happen?
When you launch a reader or other third-party tool from within Canvas, these tools often open inside an iframe—a window embedded within the Canvas page. Safari’s default settings block cookies in these iframes, interpreting them as potential cross-site tracking attempts. As a result, the reader cannot load its content properly, leaving you with a blank page.

Recommended Solution: Adjust Your Safari Settings
To resolve this issue, you need to adjust Safari's cookie settings to allow cross-site tracking within Canvas. Here’s how you can do that:

1. Open Safari Preferences: Click on “Safari” in the top menu bar and select “Preferences.”
   
2. Go to Privacy Tab: In the Preferences window, click on the “Privacy” tab.
3. Turn Off "Prevent Cross-Site Tracking": Uncheck the box next to “Prevent cross-site tracking.” This action will allow cookies to function correctly within the iframe, enabling your reader to load as expected.
   
4. Restart Safari: Close and reopen Safari to ensure that the new settings take effect.

Why Does This Work?
Disabling "Prevent cross-site tracking" allows Safari to accept cookies from third-party tools integrated within Canvas. This means the reader can establish the necessary connections and authenticate properly, displaying the content as intended.

Are There Any Downsides?
While turning off cross-site tracking may sound concerning, rest assured that it only affects how Safari handles cookies in specific situations like this. You’re enabling the reader to function correctly without significantly compromising your privacy across the web. Moreover, Canvas and most educational tools prioritize data security and privacy, minimizing any potential risks.

Other Browser Options
If you're not comfortable changing Safari’s settings, consider using a different browser. Browsers like Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox, or Microsoft Edge handle cross-site cookies differently and usually do not encounter this issue when using Canvas.

For further assistance, always reach out to our team at support@bibliu.com or check for additional resources on our help site.