What is Interlibrary Loan?
The Interlibrary Loan (ILL) department borrows materials from other libraries across the nation. This gives library customers access to books, movies and many other items which are not owned by TSCPL.
Who may request an Interlibrary Loan?
TSCPL customers with a library card in good standing are qualified to use this service. The library’s website has information about getting a library card.
What may be requested through Interlibrary Loan?
- Books, including Large Print books and foreign language materials
- Audio/visual materials such as DVDs, Blu-ray, music CDs and audiobooks
- Photocopies of articles from magazines, journals and newspapers
- Microfilm (newspapers, public records, etc)
What may not be requested through Interlibrary Loan?
- Any material owned by TSCPL
- Complete issues of a magazine or newspaper
- Videogames like those for Playstation, Xbox or Wii
- Ebooks
Does it cost anything to borrow through Interlibrary Loan?
There are no late fees or a borrowing fee. We only charge for lost or damaged materials.
In most cases there is no additional cost to borrow Interlibrary Loan materials. A few libraries do charge a lending fee, which the customer must agree to pay before we can borrow the item. Please indicate on your request the maximum amount you are willing to pay in case the only possibility of borrowing the item is from a library who charges. There are no late fees or a borrowing fee. We only charge for lost or damaged materials.
How do I request an Interlibrary Loan?
- Request online using FirstSearch - Select the red ILL button and log in using your library card and PIN.
- Request an item in person at a service desk or at a bookmobile stop.
- Call us at (785) 580-4400
Is there a limit to how many requests I may place?
There is a limit of 10 “active” requests per customer. A request is active from the time it is submitted until the item is marked returned by ILL staff or if it is cancelled.
How long does it take to get materials?
On average it takes 7-10 business days to borrow an Interlibrary Loan item.
Where can I pick up my Interlibrary Loan?
Interlibrary Loan materials are held at the TSCPL Customer Service Desk or can be put on a bookmobile by request. Photocopies can be emailed, mailed to your postal address, or picked up at the library or bookmobile.
How will I be notified about this request?
Once your item is ready to be picked we will notify you by email, text, phone or letter in the mail as selected on your library account.
How long can I have to use this material?
Interlibrary Loan items are held for 10 days after the customer is notified and they check out for 3 weeks.
Is it possible to renew Interlibrary Loan materials?
Renewals are granted by the lending library and some items are not renewable. All requests to renew material must be submitted before the due date and may be made online or at a service desk or bookmobile.
Are there overdue fees if I am late turning in my Interlibrary Loan materials?
There are no late fees or a borrowing fee. We only charge for lost or damaged materials.
Where do I return the materials?
Interlibrary Loan materials can be returned to the Customer Service desk, bookmobiles, and library bookdrops. Returning material without the ILL paperwork attached may delay the check-in process.
How can I update my contact information?
If your contact information has changed or is incorrect please let us know by email or phone.
What if I have a question not in this FAQ?
For additional information, please contact us.
ILL Contact Information:
Phone: (785) 580-4425
E-mail: ill@tscpl.org
