Sharing Resource Links with Students
Accessing the Library's electronic resources, including databases, articles, eBooks, and streaming videos, is seamless while on campus. However, for remote access—when you are off campus—you must log in using your NDUS account to validate your affiliation with VCSU.
- Lock symbol on the Library's Database A to Z list signifies that authentication is required.
- Instructions for how to access the database remotely are available at Off Campus Access to Library Resources
- “firstname.lastname” is used as username to access library databases off-campus.
What is a proxied link, and why do I need it?
When providing links to your students for accessing electronic resources off-campus, it's important to use proxied links that include the library’s proxy prefix: https://login.ezproxy1.vcsu.edu/login?url=. This ensures that students can access the resources from remote locations.
Do I need to create proxied link for every library resource?
Not necessarily! Many library resources, such as databases and Library Catalog records, already have proxied links set up. You can find these on the Databases A to Z and the Library Catalog.
However, for articles, journals, eBooks, or streaming videos, you might need to create proxied links if the publisher's URL doesn't include the library's proxy prefix (https://login.ezproxy1.vcsu.edu/login?url=).
If you're unsure, you can check by copying the link address and pasting it into a notepad or word document to see if the proxy prefix is included. If it's missing, then creating a proxied URL is a good idea.
How do I create a proxied link?
-
Identify the Resource URL: Find the permanent URL of the electronic resource you want to share https://ebookcentral.proquest.com/lib/vcsu-ebooks/detail.action?docID=30876436
-
Add the Proxy Prefix: Combine the resource URL with the library’s proxy prefix
https://login.ezproxy1.vcsu.edu/login?url=https://ebookcentral.proquest.com/lib/vcsu-ebooks/detail.action?docID=30876436
Example:
Bowen, J. A., & Watson, C. E. (2024). Teaching with AI: A practical guide to a new era of human learning. Johns Hopkins University Press
Proxied URL: https://login.ezproxy1.vcsu.edu/login?url=https://ebookcentral.proquest.com/lib/vcsu-ebooks/detail.action?docID=30876436
Proxy URL Builder Tool
For convenience, you can use the Library’s Proxy URL Builder Tool, which automates the process of creating proxied links. This tool simplifies the generation of correctly formatted URLs, ensuring consistent and reliable access for all users. You can access the Proxy URL Builder Tool here.
Best Practices
- Consistency: Always use proxied links when sharing electronic resources, especially in course materials, emails, or online platforms.
- Verification: After generating a proxied URL, test it to ensure it directs to the intended resource and prompts for authentication when accessed off-campus