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Persistent Linking

A persistent link or URL is a web address that will consistently point to a specific information source such as an article or other document in a full-text library database.

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What is a Permalink or Persistent link?

A persistent link, permalink, or stable URL is a stable web address that will consistently point to a specific information source, such as an article or other document in a full-text library database.  These may also be called a stable link, durable links, permanent links, or document links, depending on the resource.

 

 

Why should I use a persistent link and not just copy the URL in the browser address bar?

URLs that appear in the address bar of your web browser when you search within a library database usually contain dynamically generated session-based or search-based information that will not work when copied and used at a later time.

How do I find persistent links?

Most research databases include a persistent link in the article record. The terms used, and the location of these links in the record vary from one database to another. The menu links on the left will show you how to find these links within specific databases. 

Why should you use a persistent link rather than just uploading an article into Canvas, Google docs, faculty webpages, email, or elsewhere?

You may violate copyright law or license restrictions if you post content without appropriate authorization or permission. Using permalinks is a safe process to provide needed content to users without violating copyright law. See the U.S. Copyright Office for more information about copyright law. Persistent links can also help track usage statistics, which in turn help the library purchase the right resources for you. 

 
Did you post the link to an article or other document in a syllabus, reading list, word document, or Canvas? Wonder why the link doesn't work anymore.
 
Most likely, it's because you copied the URL from your browser web address, and that URL only works during the session you are in. When on campus, access is transparent -- you are being authenticated even if you don't realize it because your IP address is recognized. 
 
Authentication via a proxy server allows Waggoner to recognize and authenticate Trevecca library users when off-campus. For the library's electronic resources paid subscriptions (eBooks, journals) to work from outside the campus network or off campus, they must contain the library's proxy in the URL or web address. This, in turn, will open a dialog box prompting the user to enter their name and library barcode number. The permalink contains this information to guide the users through the correct document access process.

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