Interlibrary Loan (ILL) and Document Delivery

Interlibrary Loan is a research-support service that obtains books, copies of articles, and other printed sources that Lehigh University does not own from other libraries. Although some libraries charge fees, often the service is free. Most requests are filled within 7 workdays or less.

Requesting Materials

Always check ASA, Lehigh's Library Catalog, before requesting materials through interlibrary loan.
To request materials: Detailed information for the items being requested is often crucial to the location process; the more complete the information, the faster the document can be obtained. If you need help completing the citations, contact the IR Help Desk.

How Long Does it Take?

Requests are processed through an online network covering some 10,000 libraries. Although this system often provides numerous options for supply, delivery is almost always via U.S. mail. Further, the item may be in use at one library, so that it must be requested at a second (or third...) place. The average request is filled within 7 days, but some items will take longer.

Fees

Although most ILL transactions are free to the user, a limited number of items such as patents, NTIS reports, and doctoral dissertations are available only for a fee. You may stipulate in advance how much you are willing to pay, if payment is necessary. Charges may be made to University accounts or to University ID's [billed through the Bursar].

Delivery of materials

Photocopies are mailed to your campus address. Books and other material which must be returned to the lending library are held in the Library, and a notice is sent to you. Items can be collected at the Fairchild/Martindale Circulation Desk.

Length of Loan

Photocopies are yours to keep. Loan periods and renewals for Books and other loaned items are set by the lending library. Renewals may be requested in person, by phone (x8-3055), or by email to inill@lehigh.edu, prior to the due date.

Return of Loaned Items

Borrowed items may be returned at the Fairchild/Martindale Circulation Desk. The borrower is responsible for the loaned material; damaged or lost items must be paid for, at the cost charged by the loaning library. 

For assistance or questions regarding ILL service, contact Pat Ward at phw0@lehigh.edu.

Last updated: Tuesday, 23-Dec-2008 02:56:26 EST