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Policies: Interlibrary Loan

Don't forget the library catalog!

We may have access to the materials you seek in our library. Before requesting a book via ILL, be sure to search our ebooks. Our library collection possesses over 200,000 ebooks with instant access! Simply type in your key words in the search bar shown on the top of each page of our website. 

Welcome to InterLibrary Loans (ILL)!

Interlibrary Loan is a tool libraries utilize to share resources with each other through both physical and electronic means. This practice significantly increases our collection size and allows us to give a variety of unowned materials for free. Requests can be made through our library catalog by searching for resources under "Libraries Worldwide". Due to processing and mailing times, patrons should expect their materials within at least a week or two.

How do I access resources outside of my library?

When you search in the library catalog, search results will show you available eBooks, eVideos, books, and so forth within our library. In order to expand your search, check the box labeled “Libraries Worldwide” on the left-hand side of the page. Once you have located the desired resource, click on it and the following page will have an option on the right-hand side title “Request Item through InterLibrary Loan.

Please keep in mind that some resources take longer than others to be delivered.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long will it take to get my requested item through interlibrary loan?

You should allow 2 - 3 weeks for interlibrary loans to arrive. Some may come sooner -- it depends on the lending library and type of resource requested. Books generally come quicker because the articles need to be photocopied. We recommend avoiding procrastination when utilizing this service!!

Is there a fee for the InterLibrary Loan service?

There is no cost to utilizing InterLibrary Loan - it is free, like many library services!

How long can I borrow the loaned materials?

Each lending library has different lending periods, so please look at the date on the slip attached to the interlibrary loaned book. Articles received via interlibrary loan are yours to keep (unless otherwise stated.)

Do I need to know which library owns my request?

No - Our system will automatically route the request to libraries owning the material.

Will I get a renewal notice from the library when my interlibrary loan items are due?

No - It is your responsibility to return the items or to ask for a renewal before they are due. Failure to return borrowed items can result in fines and processing fees.

I am not quite finished with my interlibrary loan item -- can I keep it longer or renew it?

It depends on the lending library's policy. Let our interlibrary loan department know a week before your item is due that you would like to renew. If it can't be renewed through the original lending library, we can try to get another copy from another library.

To put in an ILL request, click on one of these links:

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Please follow this link to view our ILL policies:

Interlibrary Loan Policy