Proxy Link Generator

Generate Persistent and Proxied Links for Off-Campus Access

What is a persistent link?

persistent link is a URL that will remain stable over time allowing access to a particular article within an electronic resource. It is also known as a permanent, stable, or durable URL.

When linking to library materials like databases, journals, and articles, it is important to use persistent links because copying the link found in the address bar of your browser often breaks or does not allow access to it by others.

What is a proxied link and why use one?

A proxied link provides authenticated access to a website or database and restricts access when not authenticated.

Legal agreements require that only people affiliated with UNLV can access library databases and resources. A proxy server verifies UNLV affiliation and allows access to resources from off campus. 

When adding library resources to your course, such as links to articles and ebooks, it is important to use links that allow access from off-campus and prompt students to enter their ACE login information.

Learn more about off-campus access to library materials.

What does a proxied link look like?

While many of our databases automatically supply persistent links that will work for UNLV users on or off campus, some do not.

If you see ezproxy.library.unlv.edu somewhere in the persistent link, that link will allow UNLV users to connect from off campus. If not, you will need to add the proxy prefix which can be done using the proxy link generator below.

Example

JSTOR is a database that provides persistent (stable) links but they do not include the proxy prefix which allows for off-campus access.

Adding the proxy prefix to the persistent link will ensure off-campus access:
https://www.ezproxy.library.unlv.edu/login?url=http://www.jstor.org/stable/41418151

You can do this manually before sharing, or use the generator below.

Proxy Link Generator

If using a permalink from the UNLV catalog, there is no need to use the Proxy Link Generator. A UNLV catalog Permalink is already proxied. Example screenshot of catalog permalink.

1. Paste your un-proxied persistent URL here:



2.

3. Copy the new proxy URL:



 

Tip: test the new URL in an incognito/private browser window before sharing.

Also, please be aware that information is subject to change, as vendors update their products.

For instructions on adding the resources to your courses, see adding links in WebCampus.

For additional support, please contact Kevin Sebastian at kevin.sebastian@unlv.edu.