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Request an Interlibrary Loan

Our Interlibrary Loan [ILL] service obtains materials not available within the Onondaga County Public Library system. Speak with a librarian to make sure that the materials in our collection cannot fulfill your request. If they cannot, ask about ILL.

To place a request, please call or visit your local library. We cannot accept ILL requests online or through email at this time.

Interlibrary Loan FAQs

What types of materials may be requested through ILL?

  • Books
  • Audiobooks
  • Media
  • Articles

We do not borrow:

  • Software
  • Playaways, downloadable books or ebooks
  • Whole issues of periodicals
  • Titles owned in the OCPL system
  • Books or other items that are published or released in the current year

How many ILL items may be borrowed/requested at one time?

Patrons may have up to 5 active requests at one time. [Active = pending, held and checked out]

How are materials requested through ILL?

  • ILL request forms are available at all libraries within the system. Requests may be submitted in person or by calling the library.
  • Patrons requesting ILL service must use their own valid OCPL card (cannot have $5.00 or more in fines OR any lost item charges on card; must have current address and phone number listed in account).
  • Patrons should specify the library most convenient for pickup AND return. The material requested will be sent to that library and must be returned there.

Responsibilities of Patrons

Patrons using the Interlibrary Loan service are responsible for the timely return of the items obtained for them as well as for any charges resulting from loss of or damage to the materials requested.

How much does it cost?

  • It's FREE- We do not charge a fee for this service.
  • We make every attempt to find materials at libraries that do not charge.
  • In some cases, however, materials are available only at libraries that charge.
  • When we fill out the request form, you may be asked to indicate whether you are willing to pay any fees imposed by the lending library for the items requested and, if so, what is the maximum dollar amount you are willing to pay.

How long may ILL materials be kept?

  • Loan periods are determined by the lending library.
  • Renewals are sometimes allowed and must be requested before the due date- Please contact library from which you picked up the item 4-5 days prior to the due date to ask for an extension. Patrons may not request the same title more than once in a 6 month time period.

 How soon do ILL materials arrive?

  • Materials usually arrive within 3-4 weeks of the request date.
  • Sometimes they arrive much sooner, but some types of materials (e.g., Canadian census microfilm) typically take much longer.
  • If material is needed by a certain date, that date should be indicated.
  • ILL items should be picked up promptly—loan periods start when the items are sent, not at checkout.