What is a permalink and why should I use one?
Answer
Permalinks (or persistent links) are URLs for e-resources (journal articles, e-books, and streaming videos) that remain constant and stable over time. Permalinks are the best way to return to an e-resource at a later time.
When you access e-resources through a database search, a temporary session URL is created in the address bar. That URL will NOT return you to your e-resource--it is only valid for one-time access, during that one particular session, so it’s important that you don’t copy that URL to access the e-resource at a later time (or to use in your citation).
To save an e-resource URL for later access, or for use in a citation, copy the permalink instead.
All databases provide a way to generate or copy a permalink. For EBSCO databases, the permalink icon is on the right side of the e-resource detail screen as shown above. Click that icon and copy the permalink that opens up in a new window.
Other databases might use different terminology for permalinks, such as:
- Stable URL
- Permanent URL
- Permanent link
- Persistent link
Look around on your e-resource detail screen to see what name your database uses and how to find a permalink to copy and use.
