Linking to full-text articles in online databases

Why should I link to full-text articles?
Where can I use these links?
Are there any copyright issues?
Why can't I just copy the web page address?
How do I link to full-text articles?
The database I wish to use is not listed?

Why should I link to full-text articles?

If you would like students or other users to easily access journal articles (or other full-text items) in one of the Library's databases, it may be possible to create a link that will take them straight to the article without having to search the database.

Where can I use these links?

The links created will normally be placed on a course website, e.g. in Blackboard. There are some basic instructions on how to create and format a link in Blackboard. In some cases the links will be far too long to expect that they could be transcribed from a print document without problems arising.

Are there any copyright issues?

It is possible that there may be copyright issues if the article to which you link opens within the current browser window (i.e. in the window containing the link), particularly if it opens within a frame on a Blackboard page. To ensure copyright compliance all linked articles must open in a new browser window - instructions.

Why can't I just copy the web page address?

In order to to create a reliable hyperlink to an article you need a persistent or durable web address (or URL).

Determining the URL to use is not necessarily straightforward - the one displayed in your browser's address bar may not be durable. For example the URL may contain information that is dependent on your Internet session. Wherever necessary the instructions for each database will indicate how to create a stable URL.

It will also be necessary to prefix the durable URL with the address of the Library's proxy server, EZproxy. This makes off-campus access possible by student username and password or, in the case of staff, by use of the barcode number on their staff card.

Can I link to the full-text on any library database?

While not all of CQU Library's online databases permit linking direct to article level, many do. The table below indicates the databases which allow linking and which currently have instructions for creating links available.

Please note that databases are frequently subject to change, often without notice. If you have difficulty carrying out the instructions please notify the Library.

Database hosts currently supporting linking to article level

Course Resources Online (CRO)

CSA (PsycARTICLES)

EbscoHost (Health Source; SocINDEX with Full Text; Humanities International Complete)

Emerald

Factiva

Informit databases (A+ Education; APA-FT; AGIS Plus Text; Family & Society Plus; Meditext)

Infotrac (Expanded Academic ASAP)

JSTOR

Newsbank

Ovid (Journals @ Ovid)

Oxford Reference Online