DID YOU KNOW?
Interlibrary Loans

Looking for more resources? Think outside the library.

Interlibrary loan (ILL, sometimes called interlibrary services) is a service whereby a patron of one library can borrow books, DVDs, music, etc. owned by another library system. This service helps us meet the informational needs for our users when local resources are not enough. Our service, provided by OCLC WorldCat, consists of multiple individual libraries agreeing to share their collections with other libraries.

Interlibrary loan adds to the resources and vitality of our library by providing a more extensive range of materials which can be made available to users. Requests are made to and accepted from academic, public, and special libraries that make their own material available through participation in this interlibrary loan system.

To find items not in our catalog, patrons can visit WorldCat (www.worldcat.org). WorldCat is associated with OCLC and is the world’s most comprehensive database of information about library collections. Basically, it’s a global catalog of library collections.

Check out these FAQs about the Interlibrary Loan Service to learn more:

What is the fee to use this service?
Interlibrary loans cost $3 per item.

What are the fees for late interlibrary loaned items?
Late fees for these items are $1 per day.

Can items be renewed, and do they auto renew like OCPL materials?
Renewals will depend on each item. Every library within the interlibrary loan system has their own renewal policies. If renewals are available, they will auto renew just like in-house materials.

How long do requests take?
This process may take up to 2 weeks.

Is there a limit to how many items I can request?
As long as your OCPL card is in good standing, you are welcome to request up to 5 interlibaray loan items at a time.

How do I request an item?
Requests can be made in-person at any OCPL location or by filling out the Interlibrary Loan Request Form.