Research Tools & Widgets
Persistent Link Converter
The Link Converter easily transforms Persistent Article Links (URLs) you may obtain from a library subscription database. Converting a Persistent Article Link makes the article available to authenticated WIU users at off-campus locations (in addition to on-campus access). It is not necessary to convert "library direct" database URLS (e.g., WorldCat: https://www.wiu.edu/library/direct/?WorldCat), since they are always "off-campus-ready".
Library Search Engines For Firefox
Want to search WIU library resources directly from your Firefox search box? Just add a WIU Search Engine Plug-In directly into your browser. It's easy! Instructions: Using Firefox from this current page, click the green "+" sign in your upper search box. Click "Add WestCat Search" &/or "Add PHL Search." That's it! These become alternate search engines you can use in addition to Google and other favorites (e.g., Google as Default; Switch whenever desired to: Wikipedia, YouTube, WIU Searchbox, etc.). [Firefox only]
- WestCat Search (Library Catalog Search >> search by keyword for books, e-books, DVDs and other materials at WIU Libraries)
- PHL Search (Periodicals Holdings List Search >> search by title for over 50,000 full-text e-journals, e-newspapers, and print/microforms shelved in the Libraries)