Inter-Library Loan FAQ

What is Interlibrary loan?

Interlibrary loan is a service in which the library borrows library materials which we do not own. The ILL Department also lends to other libraries.

What materials are available through Interlibrary loan?

1. Books
2. Photocopies of periodical articles
3. ERIC documents may be obtained free of charge from the New York State Library on microfiche and may be read or printed on our microfiche reader-printers.

What materials may not be available through Interlibrary loan?

1. Dissertations and theses: Most American libraries will not lend dissertations.
2. Reference Materials, Audio-Visual Materials, etc. Most libraries will not loan Reference or Audio-Visual materials.

How do I make an Interlibrary loan request?

1. From the library home page, go to the Interlibrary Loan link and click on ILLiad
2. If you are using ILLiad for the first time the system will prompt you to register
3. From the main menu of your account, select the form that is appropriate for the type of request you want to make
4. Complete one request form for each item that you need
5. Complete the form as accurately as possible
6. If a journal title is abbreviated type it as is, do not guess the full title
7. Include the source of the citation in case additional information is needed to fill the request
8. Click on the "submit" button to send your request. Incomplete forms may not be processed.
9. You are allowed to submit up to 20 requests at any one time
10. Be sure to click the "exit ILLiad system" button when you are done using ILLiad, so that the system will log you out.

How long does it take to fill my request?

Please allow 7-10 calendar days for processing the request.

Whom do I contact for request status?

All Interlibrary loan requests are handled through the Tyrrell Library Interlibrary loan Office. Telephone, email, or stop in.

How will I be notified if the material has arrived or the request cannot be filled?

You will be notified via telephone or email. You can pick up materials at the circulation desk. You need a valid BCC library card to pick up all items.

How long may I keep material?

The loan period and renewal options are determined by the lending library. Each item to be returned has an ILL band attached, which includes this information. To request renewals, you must notify the ILL office at least 24-48 hours before the original due date.

Where do I return material?

All material (except photocopies) borrowed through Interlibrary loan must be returned either to the Circulation Desk or to the ILL Office. The borrower is responsible for any late fees assessed by the lending library and those imposed by Tyrrell Library.