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The WMF wants to buy you books
Sources are the most important part of writing quality content. But how do we get them? While it's hard to overstate the resources available through The Wikipedia Library, it doesn't have everything. Some editors have in-person access to great local or university libraries, and are able to share resources with volunteers at the resource exchange. But the resource exchange can be limited, especially with newer resources; due to copyright restrictions, full books cannot be shared, and often that's what is needed.
The resource support pilot (WP:RESUP) aims to fill this gap by purchasing resources directly for content editors. The pilot's been open since June, and so far has fulfilled about 20 requests.
What resources qualify?
[edit]We can support resources that will be used for creating content on Wikipedia, and which we are able to purchase and get to you. While this is mostly books, we can cover other types of resources too. For specifics, see the relevant FAQ section.
Before making a request, please attempt to get access from your local library and The Wikipedia Library. If your request is in scope of the resource exchange, an unsuccessful request there is required before we can purchase the resource.
Which editors can make requests?
[edit]Any extended confirmed user – like you! – can make a request. Again, please double-check that the source is not available using the Wikipedia Library or at your local library before filing a request.
Some Wikimedia movement affiliates have similar programs. If your local affiliate has such a program, we ask that you use their program instead.
How do I make a request?
[edit]Use the form on Wikipedia:Resource support pilot to create a page for your resource request and transclude it on Wikipedia:Resource support pilot/Requests. Please let RAdimer-WMF (talk · contribs) know if you have any questions.
Alternatives
[edit]- You can often get copies of journal articles or dissertations/theses by contacting the author(s) directly! Many authors love to share their research far and wide, and are happy to have their work in a Wikipedia article. We are a top-ten website, after all.
- The Internet Archive (archive.org) give gratis access to a wide variety of sources, including many books.