Links in Canvas and reading lists – do they work for all students?
When you create reading lists for your courses, or when you want to link to articles from Canvas, it is important to think about how students get access to the material, especially when they are studying remotely.
Many articles in our databases require login via the library’s proxy server in order to work off campus. This means that a regular web address (URL) is often not sufficient, especially for students studying from home.
What happens otherwise?
If you link directly to an article without a proxy prefix (for example from databases like JSTOR or ScienceDirect), students may encounter a paywall or an error message – even though the library actually provides access.
Another approach – let students search for the article themselves
In fact, you often do not need to include a link at all. In many cases, providing clear information about the author, title, journal and year is sufficient. Students can then locate the article via the library’s search tool.
Learning how to search for and find scholarly material is an important part of academic study, and something the library is happy to help students become confident in.
Still want to include a link? Here’s how you do it:
- Start with the proxy prefix: https://proxybib.miun.se/login?url=
- Then add the permanent link to the article:
For databases that use the DOI system (such as SpringerLink or ScienceDirect): https://dx.doi.org/[DOI-number]
For other databases (such as EBSCO, ProQuest or JSTOR): Use the database’s stable link, such as a “Permalink” or “Stable URL”.
Example of a correct proxy link:
https://proxybib.miun.se/login?url=https://dx.doi.org/10.1007/978-3-540-85204-9_23
Want to know more?
We have a clear guide with examples for different databases:
Any questions?
You are always welcome to contact the library, we are happy to help!
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