How long does it take?

Interlibrary loan is quicker than you may think, but there are several factors to consider:

• Format (Can the document be sent electronically or does it have to go through the mail?)
• Availability (How many other libraries have the article or loan requested?)
• People (Is someone available at each library to process your item?)

Given these factors, the goal is for an article is a few days (but can sometimes take longer) and books is within two weeks.

ILLiad FAQ

What is the best way to request an item we already own that is checked out?

If you need to request an item we already have because it's checked out to a patron, please use to WorldCat find the item.

I requested a dissertation but all I got was an article about the dissertation. What happened?

Dissertation abstracts are indexed in several databases.  When you use the Find Full Text button to request these items, the request you are submitting is for the abstract.  Due to the advanced and specific nature of a dissertation, they are generally not preferred for undergraduate level research.  If you cannot find another suitable article, please ask us for help.

Why don't I see all my older requests when I look at my request history?

From time to time we purge older records from ILLiad. Our policy is to keep requests online for several years in order to comply with record keeping requirements of the copyright law.  ILLiad requests stay indefinitely on the hosted site. Since ILLiad started Fall 2004, you won't see any requests you've placed with the ILL office prior to Fall 2004.