Using Library Resources in Teaching

We know that course readings can take many forms and linking to content, particularly articles in some of the library's subscription databases, in a course Brightspace site makes it easier for students to locate the material.

Here are some of our tips on how to effectively link to some of our resources:

• Don't just provide a link. Give students the relevant information to help them track down the source if the link breaks. Titles, authors, publication titles, or the name of the database it is contained in can help students locate the resource on their own.

• If linking to an article from one of the library's databases, make sure that you are using the persistent or permalink. Many URLs that appear in your browser's address bar when searching in a database are temporary and only work during a particular search session. Our Static Linking page can show you where to locate permanent links within some of our most popular online resources.

• Remind students that they can sign up for free Bloomberg.com, The Economist, New York Times, Wall Street Journal, and Financial Times digital subscription accounts via the library if you require students to read articles from those publications. Directions on how to register for these accounts are located on our Current News guide.

Our Course Reserves service can help you by providing correct links and/or documentation to items in our collections directly within your Brightspace site.

Many links to our resources need to be specially configured to work from off campus and we can ensure that the links provided in your course site are up to date and accurate. Other times, direct linking is not available or requires special steps that need to be explained to students to access specific resources.

If you have any questions, reach out to Anne Jorgensen (ajorgensen@bentley.edu).