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Finding Resources from the Library: Interlibrary Loan

Use this guide to find resources in the library and online for class, projects, and fun.

NPC Interlibrary Loan Materials Request Form

This form will need to be submitted to request items that are not available from the NPC Library.

Interlibrary loan is used for materials not owned by NPC libraries.  Staff may be able to find alternative sources at NPC. Most printed materials may be requested.  Many libraries do not lend reference, rare books, materials in great demand, newly released items, complete issues of periodicals, software, audio or video items, theses, and dissertations.  We do not borrow or loan internationally.  We do not borrow genealogy materials.  

How to Borrow Books from Other Libraries for Free

Who can Borrow?

Any person who has a NPC Library borrower card may request materials via interlibrary loan (ILL).

What Can I Borrow?

You can request articles and books from other institutions.  It is recommended that patrons consult with library staff prior to requesting this service.  Accurate and complete bibliographic information is essential in processing requests.  Only OCLC resources will be used.  We do not borrow items outside the OCLC system. 

How much does it cost?

  • NPC Library does not charge for ILL requests.
  • NPC libraries do not borrow from lending libraries that charge a fee to lend.
  • Borrowers are responsible for replacement cost and fees of unreturned and damaged ILL items.

How long does it take to receive my Interlibrary Loan?

An article will arrive more quickly than books, and could arrive in a day or two. These will be emailed to you.

Books will take a couple of weeks or more sometimes, depending on how far the book must travel to reach us. The library will contact you when it arrives. 

How long can I keep the materials?

Articles are not due back. Books due dates are set by the lending library.

Can I renew these books?

Possibly, but it is determined by the lending library. Be sure to call the library well in advance of the due date. Waiting until the final day will likely result in the lending library denying your request.

Are there limits?

  • Students, faculty, and staff are limited to five ILL items at one time.
  • Community Members are limited to three ILL items at one time.

Can I borrow books and articles if I am on Online?

Yes. Articles will work exactly as they do for the other campuses (they will be emailed to you). Books can be sent to you or the campus closest to you. If you need to make other arrangements, please call or email either library campus.

How do I request an Interlibrary Loan?

Fill out an NPC Interlibrary Loan Materials Request Form.

Books, visual recordings, sound recordings not owned by NPC:

  • Check the NPC Library Catalog to be sure we don't own the item.
  • Check your local public or school library as well.
  • If the item is still not found, go to the OCLC WorldCat database and find the title or ask a librarian to help.
  • Note the correct Title, Author, and ISBN of the edition you want.
  • Fill out an NPC Interlibrary Loan Materials Request Form, and be sure to include your library card barcode number
  • Be sure the NPC library has your current address and phone so that you can be notified when the item arrives.
  • Pick up the item as soon as you are notified.
  • Return items when due (the lending library sets due date).

Journal and newspaper articles not owned by NPC:

  • Check all library databases to be sure we do not have access (each database will display the publications it contains).
  • Fill out an NPC Interlibrary Loan Materials Request Form.
  • Provide an ISSN number if you can - it's extremely helpful (you can ask for assistance with this).
  • Provide the volume, number, pages and article title in addition to journal title.
  • Be sure the NPC library has your current address and phone so that you can be notified when the item arrives.
  • Pick up the item as soon as you are notified.
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