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Faculty Services and Resources at Houff Library: Using External Tool Option in Canvas

Using External Tool Option in Canvas

In Canvas, you have the option to use the External Tool option to access some of our library resources and embed or link to those resources all within the Canvas course shell.  The steps are outlined below using the example of embedding a film from the Films on Demand database.

Directions to that process are below:

Support for Online Courses

The library supports online teaching and learning!

Students, faculty, and staff can learn more at the Off Campus Access to Library Resources and Support page.

Library resources and support for faculty also include the option to request:

  • Assistance selecting and linking to online library resources for course materials
  • Synchronous online library instruction sessions or customized online tutorials
  • Course or assignment-specific Research Guides to support your curriculum
  • Electronic resources and streaming media purchases 

If you would like to discuss how we can support your online courses, please contact Avie Thacker (thackera@brcc.edu) or Amy Jordan (jordana@brcc.edu).

Need Help?

There are several ways to contact librarians for assistance:

 Visit us in G236/2nd Floor Houff Student Center

 Email at: library@brcc.edu

 Call Us: (540) 453-2247

Link to Blue Ridge CC directory Use the Library Directory to connect with a specific librarian 

 Use EAB Navigate to schedule a 30 minute, one-on-one meeting with one of our librarians 

Need help with something after-hours? Visit the Ask a Librarian page! Options include a live chat with 24/7 access to a librarian who can help you. 

Link to Ask a Librarian service

1. Create or edit a module or assignment and then click the "+" button.

2. From the drop down options, select "external tool"

3. Scroll to the database you wish to use. In the example, we selected Films on Demand.

4. Once you select the database, you can search for the resource you wish to use.

5. Then select if you would like to use the URL, embed, etc.

6. Then click "add item"

7. If you want to remove after it has been added, click the 3 dots.