Dalhousie Libraries is offering a limited-time trial of Overton, a powerful research tool that connects academic research with real-world policy. Faculty, staff, and students are invited to explore this resource and see how it can support research, teaching, and learning.
Overton is a global database of policy documents and grey literature. It allows users to discover how research is cited and used beyond academia, linking scholarly outputs to policy documents from governments, NGOs, and international organizations. This helps surface the broader impact of research and how it informs decision-making.
Why use Overton?
Overton supports a wide range of use cases across disciplines:
- Evidence synthesis and systematic reviews: Identify policy documents and grey literature that may not appear in traditional databases
- Impact tracking: See where research is cited in policy and explore its real-world influence
- Policy analysis: Examine how research aligns with policy priorities and societal challenges
- Teaching and learning: Incorporate diverse, globally sourced materials into course content
Get started
During the trial, users can register through a shared Dalhousie link to create an account and begin exploring. The platform includes example searches tailored to Dalhousie, helping users quickly understand its capabilities and relevance.
As the Libraries consider a potential subscription, your feedback is essential. Please test the platform and share your experiences, what works well, and how it could support your work. The trial ends July 3, 2026.
Email us with your feedback and questions about Overton.