Skip to main content
LibApps staff login

Using ASU Library E-Resources

A quick guide to using and troubleshooting ASU Library’s licensed electronic resources.

Conditions of use for E-Resources through ASU

Electronic resources are owned by independent providers and are protected by copyright and other laws. They are provided for ASU students, faculty, staff and library users only. ASU is not responsible for the content, format, accuracy or availability of electronic resources.

You must:

  • Use the resources for personal, educational or research purposes only
  • Check the provider's website for permitted uses and restrictions
  • Comply with restrictions on use, copying, reproduction, distribution and alteration

You must not:

  • Systematically or programmatically or massively copy any of these resources
  • Distribute these resources beyond ASU faculty, students and staff
  • Sell or otherwise make commercial use of the resources

What this means for you

  • You can use ASU Library’s online resources (databases, e-books, articles, streaming media, etc.) for your own study, teaching, or research.
  • You cannot share full copies with people outside ASU (friends, family, or colleagues at other institutions).
  • If you want to reuse content (e.g., text/data mining, posting to Canvas, course reserves), check the database or publisher’s terms of use first.
  • You may not use these resources for business or commercial purposes.

If you’re unsure whether something is allowed, check the provider’s terms of use or ask the library. Misuse can lead to loss of access for you and potentially for the whole ASU community.

TDM, APIs, AI

Text and Data Mining (TDM)

APIs 

  • Some vendors offer APIs for content retrieval, but use is generally restricted by license.
  • API use may be limited to approved non-commercial research projects
  • Bulk downloading via APIs may require prior permission from the vendor and ASU Library
  • Unauthorized API access (especially without rate limiting) may result in IP bans or suspended access for all ASU users

Always check the vendor’s API terms or contact the library before using APIs with licensed content.

AI and Large Language Models (LLMs)

  • Most vendor licenses prohibit using their content to train or fine-tune AI tools, including large language models (LLMs).
  • Do not upload full-text or large portions of licensed content into AI tools (e.g., ChatGPT, Claude, Gemini)
  • Consult the vendor’s terms of use or contact the library for clarification