A link resolver enables linking within a library that can interpret incoming OpenURLs, take the local holdings and access privileges of that library into account, and display links to the appropriate resources. A link resolver lets a library provide a range of library-configured links and services, including links to full text versions, a local catalogue to check print holdings, document delivery or ILL services, databases, search engines, and so on.
DOIs point to the authoritative version of content on the publisher's web site and to publisher-designated resources. However, for the user working in a library context, it is often useful to be directed to other resources. For example, the library may not subscribe to a particular electronic journal, it but may have access to the desired article through an aggregated database or print holdings. In addition, a library may want to provide a range of linking options beyond what is available at the publisher's web site.
Localized linking via DOI redirection occurs in this sequence, as shown in the following illustration:
The DOI and the OpenURL work together in several ways. First, the DOI directory itself—where link resolution occurs in the CrossRef system—is OpenURL-enabled. This means that it can recognize a user with access to a local resolver. When such a user clicks a DOI, the CrossRef system allows the DOI to be used as a key to pull the metadata needed to create the OpenURL targeting the local link resolver out of the CrossRef database and redirects that DOI back to the user's local resolver. Consequently, the institutional user clicking the DOI is directed to appropriate resources. By using the CrossRef DOI system to identify their content, publishers in effect make their products OpenURL aware.
To take advantage of localized linking, your localized linking server must have a recognized BASE-URL. BASE-URLs are collected from library affiliates for this authorization.
Once the BASE-URL is registered, go to http://www.doi.org/cgi-bin/pushcookie.cgi to download a cookie, which contains the URL for your local content server. This cookie makes your browser OpenURL-enabled, which means that the CrossRef system will redirect relevant requests to your local resolver.
Note: For more detailed information about BASE-URL and cookie pusher script, see http://www.exlibris-usa.com/sfx_cookiepusher.htm.
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