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Interlibrary Services (formerly Interlibrary Loan)

Interlibrary Services lets library users borrow hard-copy items (books, microfilm, etc.) and articles (paper, electronic) from libraries all over the world. Interlibrary Services does not fill requests for:

  • items already listed in either the SJSU Library or the San José Public Library collections
  • textbooks
  • items on Course Reserves for SJSU students at the King Library

Before using Interlibrary Services, please check the Library Catalog to see if the title you need is already listed in the Library's collection. If you need a particular book, it is also good first to check Link+, which often has a faster turnaround than Interlibrary Services.

If your item is not in the Library Catalog or Link+, please choose among the following Interlibrary Services options:

Placing Requests: An Overview

  • Placing an Interlibrary Services Request: Before placing a request, check our online catalog to make sure we do not already own the item. If an item we own appears to be missing, contact the Circulation Department to request a search; if it cannot be located, you will be allowed to submit an Interlibrary Services request for the item.
  • Request Limits: There are no request limits. However, Interlibrary Services staff reserve the right to limit how many requests are processed per day per user during busy periods.
  • Cost: Most requests are free. Some libraries, however, do charge fees to lend their items. If borrowing from such a library is the only option available, we will contact you in advance to confirm whether or not you are willing to pay the fee.
  • Waiting Period: In most cases, material is received in 7 to 10 days. Some requests can take longer, and others are here in 2 or 3 days. Delivery time depends on many factors, but the main variables are where the material is located and how quickly that library or supplier responds to requests. Interlibrary Services staff assumes that you need the material as soon as possible and makes every effort to get the material to you in the shortest time possible. There is no guarantee that the requested material will be located, and we cannot accept requests with a deadline.

Borrowing Rules

  • Loan Period: The loan period is set by the lending library, averaging around 3 weeks. There is no grace period on due dates. You must also abide by any additional lending restrictions placed on the use of their material (such as "In-library use only"). Photocopies of articles are yours to keep.
  • Renewals: Renewals can sometimes be arranged, and may be requested online through ILLiad.
  • Late Fees: $1 per day/per item. You will also be charged for any lost or damaged materials. Libraries may refuse to lend to us in the future if their materials are late or damaged.

Pick-ups & Returns

  • Notification: You will be notified by email or phone when your requested material arrives.
  • Pick-Up: Photocopies of articles can be mailed or faxed to you. Electronic Delivery of articles is also available. Books and other items can be picked up at the delivery location you chose when you registered for ILLiad.
  • Returning Items: All Interlibrary Services materials may be returned in person to the King Library or any SJPL Branches.
    Do NOT put Interlibrary Services materials in the book drop.

Other Options for Getting the Items You Need