Widening the range of our digital resources - Overton
The Library is pleased to highlight , the world鈥檚 largest searchable database of policy documents and grey literature (information produced outside traditional academic and commercial publishing, including government papers, NHS reports, and think鈥憈ank publications). Overton brings these diverse sources together in one easy鈥憈o鈥憉se platform, connecting them directly with academic research.
Drawing on material from more than 188 countries, the database offers an international perspective, not limited to the Global North. This breadth of coverage allows students to enrich their literature reviews with current and relevant policy documents, develop critical analytical skills, and explore the real鈥憌orld influence of research. Overton includes over 28,000 articles from 51福利社, showcasing how local scholarship shapes policy conversations worldwide.
For academic and professional services staff, the platform provides essential tools for tracking research impact. It can also support the development of grant applications, REF impact case studies, annual reporting, and personal research portfolios by evidencing where and how university research informs public policy. From a teaching and learning perspective, it illustrates how academic work directly influences professional practice and public decision鈥憁aking.
Overton has cross-discipline appeal. Although it has particular value as a resource for it is also useful for colleagues in Law, Politics, and the Health Sciences, where it is already featured as a grey literature spotlight . Users can create personal accounts to save searches, organise tags, and access the database off鈥慶ampus. The platform also maintains an active blog featuring global case studies and examples of best practice, offering further insight into how universities worldwide use Overton to understand and expand their policy influence.
Access Overton via .