How do I create shareable links to library resources?
Answer
Why create shareable links?
Sharing library resources is not as simple as copying the URL from your address bar. Sometimes this URL will only work on campus, or it may contain session data that is specific to your computer.
In this case, you need to format the links in a way that redirects them through the EZproxy server. Links with proxy information allow publishers' websites to recognize that users are members of the Wheaton community and have access to library resources that we subscribe to. If you share a library link without adding proxy information, other users may not be able to access it.
To create a shareable link:
- A permanent URL (also called a permanent link or permalink) is the best link to use if one is available. Most journal articles and book chapters have one of these, usually found near the top of the page. If you found a permalink, your work is done.
- A proxied DOI is the second-best option. These can often be found near the top of the page or in the citation. Most DOIs look something like this: doi:10.1038/nphys1170 or https://doi.org/10.1038/nphys1170. For the former type of DOI, remove "doi:", replace it with "https://doi.org/", and skip to step 4.
- If your resource doesn't have a DOI or permanent URL, use the URL in your web browser's address bar and move on to Step 4. This link isn't as stable as a DOI or permanent URL and should be tested before use and verified regularly.
- Add the following to the beginning of your link: http://wheatonma.idm.oclc.org/login?url=
- Share your link! A shareable link will look like this: http://wheatonma.idm.oclc.org/login?url=https://doi.org/10.1038/nphys1170