InterLibrary Loan Frequently asked Questions

What is it?

Interlibrary Loan (ILL) is a service which borrows books and articles, that our library does not own, from other institutions.

Who can use it?

Any DSU faculty, staff, and student who has a valid DSU ID (or registration card).

How do you request an ILL?

There are a variety of different ways you can submit and Interlibrary Loan Request. Online forms for books and journal articles and a PDF form you can download are available at the Interlibrary Loan Department page.

You can also fill out an Interlibrary Loan Request form in Roberts Library. Blank forms are available in a literature holder located at the Serials/Interlibrary Loan Desk on the second floor.

Please fill out the form legibly and completely. If it is incomplete, your form may be sent back to you for more information. The ISBN and ISSN identify the book or journal and should be included if they are available to you. Attaching your print-out of the citations you obtained from searching an electronic index or database will also help us when we are processing your requests.

Leave your completed form in the Literature Rack. An Interlibrary Loan staff member will pick up and process your request.

How long?

It depends. Usually materials arrive within 7-10 days. Allow yourself enough time to receive the materials before your research paper or project is due.

How much?

Normally, it costs nothing to request materials through ILL. However, some libraries may require a fee for photocopies. When filling out the request form, indicate a maximum price that you are willing to spend to obtain materials.

Restrictions?

Yes. Usually libraries will not send rare or unique books, new books, reference books, videotapes or fragile items through the mail.

Arrivals?

When your materials arrive, you will be notified by phone or mail.

Assistance?

See Diane Coleman in the Interlibrary Loan Department, Room 214, or call her at 846-4448 for questions concerning your request. The Reference librarians or Serials staff may be able to help if you have questions when completing your request form.

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