Finding & Importing Library Content on Canvas Commons

Last Updated: 19 July, 2024 | Provide Feedback

Finding & Importing Library Content on Canvas Commons

Mason Libraries shares course-specific and general library/research instructional content on Canvas Commons. Here’s how to find and import it into a Canvas course.

Log into Canvas and select the Canvas Commons button on the lefthand menu.

In the search box, use the phrase “masonlibraries” to find everything created by us. If searching for content for a specific course, use the course name. Example: ENGH302.

screenshot of Canvas with callout of Canvas Commons button and masonlibraries keyword in search bar

Select content to preview it. On the righthand side of the screen, there are options to import and download the content and to add it to your favorites.

screenshot of Canvas Commons module with callout of import/download button and add to favorites button

To import the content, click on “Import/Download.” For direct importation into a course, find it in the list of your courses or search for it. Check the box for the desired course and then select “Import into Course.” It may take a few minutes to appear after importation.

screenshot of import and download menu for Canvas Commons resources

There is also an option to download without selecting a course. Note the file type before downloading. It will usually be in the format of an IMS Common Cartridge file.

screenshot of Canvas Commons module with callout of file type

Next, go to the homepage of the desired course. Select “Import Course Content” from the menu on the righthand side of the screen. Select the file type from the drop-down menu.

screenshot of Canvas upload options with callout of Common Cartridge 1.x Package file type

Choose the downloaded file and review the content and options to make any necessary adjustments. Select the “Import” button.

screenshot of Canvas import menu

A list of current jobs (uploads) is at the bottom of the screen. When the content is ready, a green “complete” button will appear. If there are issues with the upload, a yellow “complete” button will appear with an “issues” link.

The content will be in the area of your course corresponding to its type – module, page, or quiz. Be sure to publish the item when it is ready for viewing.

For more help with Canvas Commons, use the Help button in your Canvas account or reach out to us at delib@gmu.edu.


Get Help

If you have questions or need more help try Ask a Librarian or explore the subject guide for your discipline. Use the button below to download a printable version of this tutorial.

Creative Commons License Finding & Importing Library Content on Canvas Commons by The Teaching & Learning Team is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License.