How to Add a PDF to Squarespace?
Option 1: Upload a PDF as a File Link
Open your Squarespace site editor and navigate to the page you want the PDF on.
Add a Text Block, Button Block or Image Block where you want the PDF link.
Highlight the text or select the button, then click the Link icon.
In the link editor, select File under the link type.
Upload your PDF file or select one from your existing uploads.
Save and apply the changes.
Visitors can click the link or button to download or open the PDF in a new tab, depending on their browser.
Option 2: Embed a PDF Using Lightbox Studio for an Enhanced Experience
Besides linking PDF files directly, you can use Lightbox Studio's PDF Lightbox feature to create an inline popup viewer that displays PDFs within a lightbox overlay on your Squarespace site.
Upload your PDF file to Squarespace as in Option 1.
Create a text or button link to your PDF file, but make sure the “Open link in new tab” option is unchecked.
When clicked, Lightbox Studio automatically intercepts the link and opens the PDF in a stylish, responsive lightbox window with zoom, navigation, and optional download controls.
This method keeps visitors on your site while browsing PDFs and offers better control over the viewing experience.
Option 3: Embed a PDF Using Third-Party Services (like Issuu or Google Drive):
Upload your PDF to a service like Issuu or Google Drive that provides embed code.
Copy the iframe embed code.
In Squarespace, add a Code Block where you want the PDF displayed.
Paste the embed code and save.
This method displays the PDF inline on your page as an embedded document.
Important Notes
Squarespace limits file uploads to 20MB per file.
Regular PDF links open in new tabs or prompt downloads based on browser behavior.
Lightbox Studio handles the viewer presentation responsively on desktop and mobile.
The PDF Lightbox feature requires installation of the Lightbox Studio plugin from Beyondspace.
