FAQs

GENERAL

Why have we created the ALIA Repository?

Promoting the “free flow of information and ideas through open access to recorded knowledge, information and creative works” is a core value of the Association. We have made documents available on various ALIA websites in the past, but creating a central digital repository means all this valuable information will be available in one place and with permanent URLs.

What does it contain?

The repository contains conference papers, reports, research papers, policies, standards and guidelines in PDF. This format enables documents to present consistently, regardless of software, hardware, or operating system.

It does not contain ALIA Board minutes, details financial records, management and HR files, and other commercially sensitive materials relating to the business of the Association, nor does it contain member records.

Who can access the information?

While it is thanks to the payment of ALIA membership fees that the Association has been able to develop this repository and much of the content it contains, it is not only for Members. In line with our commitment to open access, anyone can access the resources and download the documents free of charge.

Where is the repository hosted?

The repository is hosted on the ALIA webserver. Drupal, a free and open-source content-management/web application framework, provides a back-end framework for the ALIA Library. The Drupal framework was chosen for the project due to its flexibility, accessibility and security.

FOR USERS

How do I find what I’m looking for?

If you know the title, use the search box to help you find it, or use a keyword search if you are not sure. A subject term can be chosen from the drop down list if you know the topic you are looking for.

Is there a limit on how much information I can access or download at one time?

No, there is no limit. You are welcome to access and download any information from the site.

What can I do with materials?

You can use them for general research, study, to inform best practice in your place of work or for any other purpose.

A Creative Commons licence allows you to copy and redistribute the material in any medium or form as long as you follow the licence terms. However, any works you have downloaded from the Internet which are protected by copyright cannot be shared with others.

How do I know if a resource is protected by copyright?

All works are protected by copyright, and if the term “copyright” is used on the record, standard copyright regulations apply. If a creative commons statement appears, the resource can be used according to the licence. The most common licence used in the ALIA Library is Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 4.0 International License which means the document can be used under the following terms: Attribution, Non Commercial, ShareAlike.