Overview
To support copyright compliance, maintain access to library‑licensed materials, and ensure digital accessibility, instructors should avoid downloading and uploading PDFs from library databases.
Instead, use the OSU Library permalink for any article, book chapter, or resource you assign in your course.
This article explains how to find permalinks and what to do if a reading is not available in the library system.
Why Use Permalinks Instead of PDFs?
Copyright
Library‑licensed PDFs often cannot legally be redistributed. Using permalinks ensures that access is provided within copyright and licensing terms.
Subscription Sustainability
Permalinks help the university track usage, which supports continued funding and renewal of journal and database subscriptions.
Accessibility
Many vendors provide accessible EPUB formats or improved PDF tagging through the library platform. Uploaded PDFs may lack OCR, tagging, or other important features for screen readers.
How to Find a Permalink
- Locate the article, chapter, or resource in the OSU Libraries catalog or the database where it is hosted.
- Look for terms such as Permalink, Stable URL, Permanent Link, or Share Link.
- Copy that link and share it with your students.
If you're not sure whether your article is in the OSU Libraries system, you can try “proxifying” the link using the Linking to Library Licensed Resources LibGuide (Off‑Campus Linking Tool).
Video Guides
If the Reading Is Not Available Through the Library
If you cannot locate a library permalink, consider the following options:
1. Request the Library to Add It
You may recommend that OSU Libraries purchase or subscribe to the resource using the Recommend a Purchase form.
2. Use a PDF (with required steps)
If no library access is available and you plan to use a PDF:
Step 1: Complete a Fair Use Analysis
Step 2: Ensure the PDF Is Accessible
- Before sharing the PDF, check:
- If not:
Resources