Persistent links (also called durable, permanent, or permalinks) are URLs that remain consistent and do not change over time. Copying and pasting the URL from your browser address field will not always create a consistent, stable link. Many URLs from library databases only work for a short period because they are created at the moment of access.
Use the instructions below to create persistent links to articles, database searches, books, and videos. Keep in mind that not all databases have persistent links.
Links in course shells should be added with caution. It is the responsibility of faculty and program managers to ensure that links are current and persistent. Since links and access change often, we recommend using Leganto Reading Lists to distribute materials to students. This demonstrates good practice for students and reduces broken links in courses. All materials can be added to reading lists, including materials that are not provided through the library.
Through the reading lists, students can alert us to broken links or loss of access and the system automatically updates links to ensure access throughout CityU databases. For more information about Leganto please review this guide.
IF, resources are shared in course shells, we recommend that a full APA citation be supplied so that we can troubleshoot broken links. Access to items can change for many reasons. Adding a full citation enables us to find the item if it is still available in the collections. APA citations also set a good example for students and set the standard for using appropriate citations in an academic environment.
When sharing resources with students, consider referring them to course reading lists. This can provide a centralized place for students to access resources.
The 7th edition of APA no longer requires that links be added to materials found in library databases. This eliminates the need for persistent links in these citations as well as links to the journal homepages. If you would like students to add persistent links to their citations for your convenience, please ensure that they are aware of this change to their APA citations.
The URL in your browser’s address bar is a persistent link
The URL in your browser’s address bar is a persistent link!
Articles integrated into a course management system, such as D2L Brightspace or Blackboard, are subject to copyright.
For more information on copyright, please see our Copyright for Faculty page.
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License.