A persistent link (also called a persistent URL or durable link) is a direct and stable link to a specific online article. Persistent links are necessary because our databases are only accessible to Portland State affiliates. Persistent links help instructors remain in compliance with our database licenses and copyright law by linking to articles rather than copying the articles themselves. Persistent URLs can also allow you to link directly to specific records or search results in our Library Catalog (Vikat). For instructions on obtaining persistent links in Vikat, please refer to http://vikat.pdx.edu/screens/help_predefinedlinks.html.

This webpage provides instruction on how to obtain persistent links, and is organized based on database vendor or platform. Determine what database was used to find the specific article and follow the instructions found under the corresponding vendor or platform. Use the links below to view instructions for each vendor. This is not an exhaustive list of full-text resources, only those most frequently used in Portland State Library's collection.

Vendors:

It is important that you attach the library's proxy address (http://stats.lib.pdx.edu/proxy.php?url=) to the beginning of any persistent links, to ensure that all users (both on-campus and off) can gain access to the article. Article links may be persistent, but it is possible they may not be permanent. For this reason, you are encouraged to test your links regularly and update them as necessary.

If you need assistance or if the vendor you are looking for is not listed above, please Ask Us!

Note: The organization of these instructions were modeled, with permission, after a persistent links resource created at the Western Illinois University Library.