Interlibrary Loan is a system that allows libraries to share materials with each other. It consists of two parts, Lending and Borrowing. Here are the most important things to know about each:
Lending
- Lending is when Loyola lends its own materials to other libraries.
- We lend whole books (through a courrier/US mail) and copies of journal articles (usually sent electronically as a PDF).
- Student workers tend to help with Lending more than Borrowing.
Borrowing
- Borrowing is when Loyola asks other libraries if we can borrow something from their collection.
- Loyola faculty, students, and staff can ask the ILL department to obtain books and articles not owned at Loyola.
- Articles are usually delivered electronically. Books can usually be taken home, but must be returned fairly quickly.
- This service is free of charge, though you are responsible for overdue fines or lost book charges if applicable.