Trent University Library arranges trials (typically 30-60 days) of databases, journals, e-book collections, and other digital content, to give our community the opportunity to explore and evaluate a resource before the library commits to a purchase or subscription.
Current Trials
Please visit our Find a Database list to review current trials available for review.
About Trials
How to Request a Trial: Faculty, instructors, staff, and students may request a trial by contacting their liaison librarian or emailing library@trentu.ca. Include the resource name, vendor, and a brief note on how it would support your teaching or research.
During a Trial: Trial resources are accessible to the full Trent community and listed in the Find a Database list with end dates and access instructions. Usage is monitored and feedback is collected throughout.
Share Your Feedback: Your input directly shapes our subscription decisions. Use the feedback form to tell us how you used the resource and whether you'd recommend a subscription. You can also speak with your liaison librarian at any time.
How Decisions Are Made: At close of each trial, we evaluate usage statistics, community feedback, alignment with Trent's curriculum and research priorities, overlap with existing resources, and cost. Not every trial results in a subscription. Decisions also depend on budget availability. Anyone who requests a trial or submits feedback will be notified of the outcome.