Get answers to your questions about our borrowing books through Interlibrary Loan (ILL).
What type of materials can I obtain through Interlibrary Loan (ILL)?
Older books which PCLS does not currently own, copies of articles, or microform can usually be obtained via ILL if we are able to find an owning US library willing to lend.
Can I request a movie or CD through Interlibrary Loan?
No, the Library borrows only books or print materials. All requests for movies, CDs, audio books and electronic books will be considered for purchase only.
Can I request a newly published title?
All requests for recently published books will be considered for purchase only. If the book has been published in the last year or two, we are unable to borrow it. We have found that we are unable to find libraries that will loan their newest books to us. Most Libraries reserve newest titles for use by their own customers.
If Pierce County Library already owns a copy of the title I want, will you ILL a copy for me, if I ask for it that way?
No. The library uses Interlibrary Loan exclusively for titles we do not own. Please place a regular hold in our catalog for any titles that PCLS currently owns.
How long does it take to get a book?
Generally we are able to obtain a book via ILL within 2 – 4 weeks. In a few cases, it may take longer. It depends if there are copies readily available from other library systems.
Can I renew my ILL items?
You are not able to renew ILL items. ILL is a special service. We are borrowing items from other libraries who voluntarily loan them to us, so our customers can have access to materials we do not have. We need to return those items within a reasonable amount of time to maintain good inter-Library relationships in order continue to be able to provide this service in future.
When will I know if the library is unable to get the book I requested?
How many Interlibrary loan (ILL) requests can I have?
You may have 5 requests for purchase/ILL requests a month which totals 60 requests a year.
How will I know if an ILL item will have a charge attached?
If the lending library charges us for an item, we will pass those charges onto you. We will ask for your approval and acceptance of these borrowing charges before we borrow that item. Shipping costs, however, are paid for by the Library.
If a book that I obtained via ILL becomes lost or damaged, what will I have to pay?
If an ILL book becomes damaged or lost while in your possession, we will assess your account whatever the owning library charges us for damage/lost. This can vary widely, depending on the book and the owning library involved. Please take extra care with ILL books.
What are reasons I might not be able to obtain a requested title via ILL request?
There may be one of several reasons why your request cannot be filled:
Please contact library staff if you have any difficulties with your account.
Tel: 253-548-3300 Fax: 253-537-4600 Washington Relay TTY: 711
© 2012 Pierce County Library System All rights reserved.
Language: English