Skip to Content

Acceptable use for online resources

When using online resources including databases, online journals and ebooks you must comply with...

How can you use online resources?


It is usually permitted to: It is usually not permitted to:
  • print, save, or email a reasonable number of articles or a reasonable amount of other information
  • make a large number of copies from the same journal or database
  • make multiple copies of the same article to use as class handouts or in coursepacks
  • do any sort of systematic copying such as making a copy of every article in an issue of an online journal or making a copy of an entire online book
  • make and use a copy for your personal teaching, learning and research at Swinburne
  • make a copy for use outside Swinburne
  • use a resource for profit or commercial purposes
  • share a copy with other staff and students at Swinburne
  • share a copy with people outside Swinburne
  • make a link to an article in a database (see instructions)
  • make an electronic copy of a database article and post it online without permission

Who can use a library database?

The databases and online resources listed in the library catalogue and on the library web site may be used by currently enrolled Swinburne students and staff to support teaching, learning and research at Swinburne. Some databases may also be used in the campus libraries by visitors and registered borrowers.