Whenever you can, share library links to articles, ebooks, and videos instead of PDFs. Students get more ways to access the content, and every click helps us keep the resources you need. On this page: More Ways to Read, Listen, and Learn New Accessibility Requirements (April 2026) Every Click Counts Get Stable Links That Work Ensure Off-Campus Access More Ways to Read, Listen, and Learn A PDF gives students one option. A library link gives them several.HTML Works with screen readers; adjustable textAudio Text-to-speech; downloadable MP3ePub Reflowable text; adjustable fonts and colors; great for mobile readingTranslation Tools Many platforms offer built-in translation into multiple languages PDFs aren't automatically accessible PDFs aren't automatically accessible Most PDFs are not accessible by default. To work with screen readers and other assistive technology, a PDF must be intentionally designed with tagged headings, searchable text, correct reading order, alt text for images, and accessible tables.Ever tried to read a PDF on your phone?That same rigidity creates barriers for many students. Library links often offer more flexible, accessible formats. Many of our databases, including those on EBSCO, Gale, and ProQuest platforms, offer built-in listening tools, adjustable fonts, and formats designed for assistive technology. Library links for articles and ebooks can offer options like: listen to the textadjust playback speeddownload an MP3customizable text highlightingtranslate articles into multiple languagescustomize font size, font type, spacing, and color contrast for easier reading New accessibility requirements take effect April 2026 The U.S. Department of Justice now requires all digital course content at public universities to meet accessibility standards by April 24, 2026.Linking to library resources rather than uploading PDFs helps meet this requirement. Major library database platforms are built with accessibility in mind. Many PDFs are not. Every Click Counts Accessibility is the most important reason to use Library links. But your links help us (and you), too.When students click a library link, that use is counted. We use this data to decide which subscriptions to renew.In 2025, we've tracked over 77,000 article downloads through library links. That data helps us see what resources our community actually uses and make the case to keep them.Imagine 30 students download the same article PDF you uploaded to Brightspace. They read it, cite it, learn from it. But the library's usage data shows zero uses.When you use a Library link instead, every click counts. A reading list in Brightspace with library links. Students click once and go directly to the article, with all the accessibility options the database offers. Get Stable Links That Work Step 1. Find a library resource Search our collection to find articles, ebooks, and videos. Or, if you have a DOI or PMID, paste it into LibKey.io to check access instantly. Have a DOI or PMID? Skip the search Paste it into LibKey.io to check access instantly. If we have it, click "Article Link" to go straight to the database and grab your stable link. Libkey.io Step 2. Get a Stable Link Copy the stable link from the database. Most platforms call it "Permalink" or "Permanent URL." Each database puts it in a different spot. We'll show you where.See instructions for:EBSCOProQuestAcademic Video Online (AVON) / Alexander StreetGaleKanopyDon't see yours? See all databases Find the Stable Link in Your Database See Instructions by Database Example of the stable link button on the ProQuest platform. Need to ensure off-campus access for a Stable Link?Some databases (like EBSCO and JSTOR) automatically include library authentication when you copy a stable link. Others don't.Paste any stable link or DOI link below, and we'll add what's needed so students can access it from anywhere. Paste a URL. Step 2: click here to build URL Valid URLs must begin with http:// or https:// Use this Transformed URL. Step 3: Test Me! If your browser supports it, we've copied this new url to your clipboard! Notes: 1. Clicking "Test Me" will take you to the new URL to test your access. 2. If you are off campus and not behind the UAlbany VPN you should hit a login prompt. 3. If you are on campus, you'll likely be directed straight to the resource. Tip: If your link doesn't work, see our troubleshooting tips.